How to Grow Princess Pole Bean
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Princess Pole Bean
Phaseolus vulgaris
vegetablePrincess is a stringless pole bean variety that produces long, slender green pods on vigorous climbing vines. Known for exceptional tenderness and flavor, it's an excellent choice for fresh eating and freezing. This heirloom variety has been a gardener's favorite for decades due to its productivity and disease resistance.
When should you plant Princess Pole Bean in your zone?
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Example Princess Pole Bean timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Princess Pole Bean
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Princess Pole Bean
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Princess Pole Bean dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; prefers warmer weather for optimal production
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Seedling
7-10 daysSeed germinates and two cotyledons emerge, followed by true leaves. Vines begin climbing.
Ensure soil warmth (soil temp 60°F+). Plant seeds directly after last frost. Provide sturdy trellis or support structure immediately.
Flowering
2-3 weeksSmall white or lavender flowers appear in clusters along the vine nodes. Flowers are self-pollinating.
Continue consistent watering and mulching. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer. Flowers should develop into pods within days.
Pod Development & Fruiting
3-4 weeksLong, slender green pods form and elongate rapidly. Pods become plump and tender as seeds develop inside.
Begin harvesting when pods are 6-8 inches long and pods snap when bent. Regular picking encourages more production. Water deeply during pod fill.
Harvest & Maturity
Until frost or 8-10 weeks totalPods reach full length and optimal tenderness. Plant continues producing until frost or end of season.
Harvest every 2-3 days for maximum tenderness. Leave pods on vine and they become tough and stringy. Pull entire vine at season end.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick adults and egg clusters. Use row covers on young plants. Spray neem oil or spinosad if infestation is severe. Plant resistant varieties.
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Spray forceful water to dislodge. Use insecticidal soap. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer.
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Increase humidity with frequent watering. Spray with water to remove mites. Use neem oil or miticide if severe.
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Ensure good air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Apply sulfur dust or fungicide at first sign. Remove affected leaves.
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Remove infected leaves promptly. Improve air circulation. Avoid wetting foliage. Apply copper fungicide if necessary.
Uses
Fresh vegetable
CulinaryPrincess beans are prized for their tender texture and sweet flavor when harvested young. They are excellent steamed, sautéed, or eaten raw as a garden snack. [source]
Freezing and preservation
CulinaryThe stringless pods freeze exceptionally well, retaining their tender texture and flavor for months. Blanch briefly before freezing for best results. [source]
Garden succession planting
HouseholdPrincess beans are ideal for succession planting throughout the growing season. Plant new crops every 2-3 weeks for continuous harvest. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeThe flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting garden biodiversity and ecosystem health. [source]
Nutritional benefits
MedicinalHigh in fiber, vitamins A and C, and folate. Bean pods provide plant-based protein and support digestive health. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest pods when they are 6-8 inches long, tender, and snap when bent (before seeds bulge inside). Pick every 2-3 days to encourage continued flowering and pod production. Handle vines gently to avoid damaging the plant. Best harvested in early morning when pods are crisp. Pods can be used fresh, steamed, sautéed, or frozen.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Princess is an heirloom pole bean variety that has been cultivated for over a century and remains a favorite among home gardeners for its exceptional taste and productivity.
- 🌱 The pods are completely stringless—a significant advantage over older bean varieties—making them quick and pleasant to prepare for cooking.
- 🌱 Pole beans like Princess are nitrogen-fixing plants that form symbiotic relationships with beneficial soil bacteria, naturally enriching soil and reducing the need for nitrogen fertilizer.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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