How to Manage Pests

Planting beans

It is best to direct seed beans into the garden. Germination will occur within about 10 to 15 days if soil temperatures are around 60° F. They should be planted on raised beds, made by adding large amounts of sifted compost or other soil amendments so that a bed is established above the previous level of soil. Plant the seed only after the danger of frost has past. Seed should be sown about 1-inch deep in rows spaced about 2 feet apart. Bush beans may be planted closer but should not be crowded. In wide raised beds, plant two rows on either side of the bed with 18 inches between the rows. Thin the seedlings so that, once established, they are 6 inches apart within the row. For pole varieties, plant adjacent to a trellis that is 6 to 10 feet tall. Sow seeds 1-inch deep and 4 inches apart on both sides of the trellis. Thin to 6 inches apart once established. Young seedlings can be protected with cloth until they have about 6 leaves. This helps protect the beans from seedling pests such as flea beetles, vegetable weevils, leafminers, snails, and slugs. It may also protect them from birds.