Bush beans, as the name suggests, grow in a bush shape. But what exactly does that mean? How much space do they need, which soil is ideal and how big do the bush bean plants get? Find out everything you need to know about the growth of bush beans and their care below.
What is the best way to grow bush beans?
Bush beans grow up to 50 cm high and require a planting distance of at least 30 cm. They are sensitive to cold and should be sown at a soil temperature of 10°C. They thrive in a sunny location and benefit from piling up from a size of 15 cm.
When are bush beans sown?
Bush beans are very sensitive to cold and should only be sown when the soil temperature is permanently above 10°C. This usually only happens after the Ice Saints. But bush beans can also be sown in June or July, as their growing season is only two to three months, depending on the variety.
Growing upwards
Bush beans are quite low plants. They reach a maximum height of half a meter. On average they grow between 30 and 50cm tall. In contrast to runner beans, bush beans do not climb and therefore do not need any climbing support.
The growth in breadth
Bush beans don't grow as tall as pole beans, but they do grow a little more widely than their relatives. Even if the ideal planting distance varies from variety to variety (follow instructions on the package), a minimum distance of 30cm should almost always be maintained.
Growth in depth
The roots of the French bean penetrate very deeply into the soil, which makes removal in the fall much more difficult. However, this has a positive effect on the water supply, as it allows them to survive even short periods of drought. However, bush bean roots are not invasive and so do not need a root barrier.
In order to give the plant a good hold, it makes sense to pile up bush beans. To do this, pour soil around the stem of the plant when it is around 15 to 25cm tall, from April. You can find detailed instructions for piling up here.
Promoting the growth of the French bean
With these tips, your bush beans will thrive:
- loose up the soil and incorporate compost in the fall before sowing
- maintain a planting distance of 30cm
- choose a sunny location
- only sow when the soil temperature is at least 10°C
- pile up from a size of 15cm
- Mulch protects against drying out and weeds
Tips: To protect bush beans from aphids, combine them with savory. You can find more good neighbors and unfavorable planting partners here.
