The term ‘green bean’ is a rather generic term as it encompasses the unripe form of common beans (like kidney and pinto beans). ‘Green beans’ grow in three types: bush beans, runner beans, and pole beans. Two of the names are exactly as they sound. Bush beans (the traditional green bean you find in stores) grow in low-growing bushes, while pole beans are trained to run up polls. Runner beans fit somewhere in between, growing pods that are roughly 6 inches long. Even though we are familiar with bush beans, pole beans produce more beans per space and can be easier to grow.
Pole beans come in various colors and grow a couple feet in length. The pods are edible and these beans are great steamed, cooked in a stir-fry, or added to stews. Bush beans love the heat, making them perfect for summer growing, while pole beans prefer slightly cooler temperatures of late spring/early summer.
Green Beans can be frozen. Trim the ends, blanch for 3 minutes, drain, and store in an airtight, freezer-safe container.
Summer/Early Fall
Pole and bush beans can be eaten thinly shaved/raw, but I prefer them cooked. Sauteeing, roasting, blanching, steaming, or used in stews are all great options.
Look for beans that are uniform in color, have no blemishes, and snap when bent. Also, look for pods that do not have prominent beans poking through the shell, especially pole beans.
Store green beans in a reusable container lined with a tea towel, loosely covered with a lid.
Pole Beans/ Yardlong Beans
Kentucky Wonder
Kentucky Blue
Red Noodle
Bush Beans
Blue Lake
Golden Wax
Provider
Dragon’s Tongue
Runner/Half-Runner
White half-runner
