Climbing bean seeds — tall beans for a big crop in a small space
Climbing beans are the space-savers of the veg garden — growing upward on canes to give weeks of pods from just a few square feet. They include climbing French and runner types in the Phaseolus vulgaris family within our peas and beans range. New to growing beans? Our vegetable growing guide has you covered.
Build the supports first. Get canes up before sowing, and sow once the soil is warm — the calendar shows when.
Climbing vs bush beans
Climbing types crop for far longer and at a comfortable picking height, but they need sturdy support. Prefer no canes? Our compact bush beans and dwarf beans crop in a quick flush instead. Browse the wider green bean and French bean ranges for every type.
Growing a long harvest
Sow direct after frost into rich, well-prepared soil (our soil guide helps) and keep the roots moist once flowering for a heavy set. Pick every few days — the more you pick, the more they produce — and our harvesting guide helps with the glut.
Growing runner beans? They're brilliant for pollinators too — their flowers buzz with bees all summer.
Popular vegetable categories: Phaseolus vulgaris · Pole Beans · Bush Beans · French Beans · Peas & Beans
At SeedsChoice, every order ships from Meppel, NL with fast, tracked EU delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Climbing or bush beans — which should I grow?
Climbing beans crop for much longer at an easy picking height but need support; bush beans give a quick flush with no canes.
What support do climbing beans need?
A sturdy cane wigwam or frame around two metres tall — they get heavy in full crop.
When do I sow them?
After the last frost into warm soil, or start them in pots a few weeks earlier.
How do I get more beans?
Pick every few days and keep the roots moist once flowering — regular picking keeps pods coming.
Are runner beans good for bees?
Yes — their flowers are a real magnet for pollinators.