If you’ve ever stood in front of a seed rack, debating between pole beans and bush beans, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too, holding one packet in each hand, wondering which type would be better for my backyard garden.
The short answer? It depends on what kind of gardener you are and how you like to grow your food. But let’s dig into it a little, because both types of beans have their own set of perks—and picking the right one could make your growing season smoother and more satisfying.
The Case for Bush Beans
Bush beans are the no-fuss, low-maintenance type. They grow into compact plants, about one to two feet tall, and they don’t need a trellis or any kind of support. You just plant them, keep them watered, and they’ll do their thing.
Why choose bush beans?
Faster harvest: Bush beans tend to mature quicker—usually in about 50 to 60 days. If you’re impatient (like me sometimes), this is a big win.
Great for small spaces: If you’re growing in containers or a raised bed, bush beans are super manageable.
Easier to grow in a hurry: Since they don’t require staking or a trellis, they’re great if you’re planting late or just want something simple.
All-at-once harvest: They often produce most of their beans in one big flush, which is perfect if you like to harvest a bunch at once for freezing or canning.
Now, the flip side is that because they do their thing so fast and all at once, they don’t produce for as long. So, you might need to do succession planting if you want beans all summer.
Why Pole Beans Might Be Your New Favorite
Pole beans are the marathon runners of the bean world. They take a little longer to get going—usually about 65 to 75 days to mature—but once they start producing, they just keep going and going (and going).
Why go with pole beans?
Longer harvest window: These plants produce over a longer period of time. Instead of getting all your beans in a week or two, you’ll get a steady stream for several weeks or even months.
Saves space: Pole beans grow vertically—often 6 to 10 feet tall—so they’re great for gardeners who want to maximize yield in a small footprint.
Fun to grow: There’s something really satisfying about watching a wall of green climb up a trellis or teepee. It feels like you’re growing a mini jungle.
Easier picking: Once they start climbing, many of the beans are up off the ground, which means less bending and squatting when it’s harvest time. (Your back will thank you.)
Pole beans do require some support—think bamboo poles, a netting system, or a good ol’ fashioned teepee—but if you’re up for a little setup, the payoff is pretty sweet.
So… Which Should You Choose?
Honestly, you can’t really go wrong. If you’re just getting started or want a quick harvest, bush beans are perfect. If you want a longer harvest and don’t mind setting up a trellis, pole beans might win your heart.
Some folks (myself included) grow both. I’ll plant a quick batch of bush beans in early summer to get some early harvests, then rely on pole beans to carry me through late summer and fall. It’s the best of both worlds—and who says you have to choose just one?
So next time you’re standing in front of those seed packets, go ahead and grab both. Your garden—and your plate—will thank you.