As the name suggests, bush beans grow in a bushy manner. But what exactly does that mean? How much space do they need, what soil is ideal and how big do the French bean plants grow? Find out everything you need to know about the growth of bush beans and their care below.

French beans grow in width, not in height

When are French beans sown?

Bush beans are very sensitive to cold and should only be sown when the soil temperature is permanently above 10°C. This is usually the case after the ice saints. But bush beans can also be sown in June or July, because their growing season is only two to three months, depending on the variety.

The growth upwards

Bush beans are quite short plants. They reach a maximum height of half a meter. On average they grow between 30 and 50cm. In contrast to runner beans, bush beans do not climb and therefore do not need climbing aids.

The growth in breadth

Although bush beans do not grow as tall as pole beans, they do grow a little wider than their relatives. Even if the ideal planting distance varies from variety to variety (follow the instructions on the packaging), 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 it much more difficult to remove in autumn. However, this has a positive effect on the water supply, as it also allows them to survive short periods of drought. However, French bean roots are not invasive and so do not need a root barrier.

To help the plant get a good hold, it makes sense to pile up French beans. To do this, pour soil around the stalk of the plant when it is about 15 to 25cm tall, from April. Detailed instructions on how to pile up can be found here.

Promote the growth of the French bean

Your French beans will thrive with these tips:

  • loosen the soil and work in compost in autumn before sowing
  • maintain a planting distance of 30 cm
  • choose a sunny location
  • only sow at a soil temperature of at least 10°C
  • pile up from a size of 15cm
  • Mulch (€239.00) protects against dehydration and weeds

Tips: To protect French beans from aphids, combine them with savory. You can find more good neighbors and unfavorable planting partners here.

Category:

Vegetable garden