Half-runner green beans require some form of support in the garden, such as a trellis, cage, or stake. Unlike bush beans that grow in a compact, upright manner, half-runner beans have a vining growth habit. This means that they will send out long, trailing stems that need something to climb on.
By providing a trellis or other support structure, you can help guide the growth of the half-runner beans and prevent them from sprawling all over the ground. This not only makes it easier to harvest the beans, but it also helps improve air circulation around the plants, reducing the risk of disease.
In my own experience, I have found that half-runner beans can quickly reach heights of over 15 feet if left to their own devices. Without a trellis or other support, the vines tend to tangle and become a mess, making it difficult to find and pick the beans. This can be especially challenging if you have a large planting of half-runners.
When it comes to choosing a trellis or support structure, there are a few options to consider. A simple stake can work well for a small planting of half-runners. You can drive the stake into the ground next to the bean plants and tie the vines to it as they grow. Just be sure to choose a sturdy stake that can support the weight of the vines.
Another option is to use a cage or a trellis made specifically for climbing vegetables. These structures provide a more organized framework for the vines to climb on and can make it easier to train the plants upward. You can find pre-made trellises and cages at garden centers, or you can build your own using materials like bamboo poles or wire mesh.
It’s important to set up the trellis or support structure before planting your half-runner beans. This way, you can guide the vines as they grow and prevent them from becoming tangled or sprawling. You can also plant the beans closer together when using a trellis, as the vertical growth allows for more efficient use of space.
Half-runner green beans do require a trellis or other support structure to grow properly. Without a trellis, the vines can become tangled and sprawling, making it difficult to harvest the beans. By providing a trellis, you can guide the growth of the plants and make harvesting easier.
