Bush bean bush-bean Bush beans (snap beans, French beans, wax beans) are compact, fast-maturing forms of Phaseolus vulgaris that do not need trellising. They thrive in warm, frost-free conditions and are ideal for succession sowing to extend harvests. Beans fix atmospheric nitrogen via Rhizobium bacteria, so avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen. Most varieties mature 50–60 days from sowing; pick regularly to keep plants productive. Wax beans have yellow pods; green and purple types are common; purple pods typically turn green when cooked. Growing conditions LightFull sun (6–8+ hours of direct light). Soil typeWarm, well-drained loam or sandy loam enriched with mature compost; avoid waterlogged or cold soils. Water requirementModerate, even moisture; about 20–25 mm per week, more during flowering and pod fill. Nutrient requirementLow to moderate; high nitrogen discourages flowering. Supply balanced organic nutrition and ample potassium. Back to plant list
