Last year I used a teepee for my pole beans and it worked well, but I decided to modify it to maximize my harvest. I added several bars to the teepee so I could plant beans completely around the tee pee. I left one side open so my grandchildren can have a seat inside while Mawmaw is gardening. I have an adorable miniature chair that I can place inside the teepee for them to rest.
It was quite simple and inexpensive to make. I used the bamboo poles from last season and cuttings from my bamboo squash trellis from last year as well. I found some string that I had laying around to tie the pieces to the teepee. Lowes and Home Depot sell bamboo poles that won't break the bank if you can't found a resource locally. My brother has a yard full of bamboo, so I lucked out. The poles should be 7 - 8 feet tall and you need at least 4. More can be used depending on how large and wide you want the teepee. I used 4 7 foot poles and 5 bars across. Be sure to secure the poles at the top tightly and get them deep into the ground before you tie on the horizontal poles.
I used Blue Lake pole beans, which I planted a week ago. They have germinated already! I was quite surprised when I went down to the garden this week-end and these sprouts were waiting for me. Hopefully, they will continue to rise. I did plant a few rows of Jade bush beans, which were recommended by a fellow gardener. Can't wait to try them. They have sprouted as well. I need to take a picture a of them. I used them a companion to my tomatoes and cukes. Do you plant pole beans or are you a bush bean gardener. What's your favorite green bean?
