How to Grow Beans in Houston

Versión en español

Learn how to grow beans in Houston. Beans Phaseolus vulgaris is one of the easiest crops to grow; bean varieties are separated on bushes or vines. They do not need much space or very enriched soil. Good drainage and sun are essential. Beans enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen that later other plants will consume in their growth.

My favorite varieties of green beans for Houston:

Provider, the best: healthy plants, dependable and exceptional producer of sweet stringless beans. Multiple crops. Keep producing through the season.
Kentucky Wonder is available in bush or vine varieties; the latter produces for a longer time. Stringless if harvest young.
Contender
Borlotti or cranberry beans for shelling beans if left to dry, serve to store for the winter.
Rocdor, yellow-green beans, tasty and beautiful
Lima beans also belong to this family.

Beans are spring crops in Houston. Start planting in March through April. I recommend planting a few seeds every two weeks to have a permanent supply during the early summer. Depending on the variety, they will get a single crop all at the same time or several crops as the plant matures. Beans get damaged by late frosts, cover and protect.

To plant, prepare the soil with compost and sand if necessary, fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer, like MicroLife, integrate well, and make 1" depth holes. Put one seed, the space between seeds will depend on the variety. Lima beans are planted deeper and later in the season. Pat the soil with the hand and water in soft rain every morning until the beans germinate and have their first two leaves. Water every other day until they have six leaves, then only water when the ground is dry when you sink your finger on it.

When the beans are ready to be harvested (50 days or more, depending on the variety), it is better to cut them with scissors, these plants have thin roots, and if you pull the plant, they can get unearthed. So especially if you are harvesting with children cutting is recommended.

Green beans can be stored for several days in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.