Companion Planting with Runner Beans

Do you want to grow your own vegetables and fruits but don't want to use harmful chemicals? Companion planting is an age-old technique that can help you achieve this goal. By planting certain crops together, you can improve soil health, deter pests, and increase yields. One great example of companion planting is growing runner beans alongside other plants. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of companion planting with runner beans and give you some tips for getting ed.

The Benefits of Companion Planting with Runner Beans

There are several benefits to companion planting with runner beans:

Better Soil Health

Runner beans are nitrogen-fixing plants, which means they take nitrogen from the air and convert it into a form that other plants can use. When you plant runner beans alongside other plants, they can help improve soil fertility by adding nitrogen to the soil.

Natural Pest Control

Some plants produce natural compounds that repel pests and insects. For example, marigolds produce a chemical called thiophene that repels nematodes, a type of worm that can damage plant roots. When you plant marigolds alongside runner beans, they can help deter nematodes and other pests.

Increase Yields

Companion planting can also help increase yields by creating a more diverse ecosystem in your garden. When you plant different crops together, they can work together to create a healthier environment for all plants. For example, planting runner beans next to corn can help increase the yield of both crops.

Getting ed with Companion Planting

If you're new to companion planting, here are some tips for getting ed:

Choose the Right Plants

Not all plants make good companions. Some plants can actually harm each other if planted too close together. It's important to choose plants that have complementary growing habits and nutrient needs. For example, runner beans grow well alongside corn, squash, and cucumbers.

Plan Your Garden Layout

Before you planting, it's a good idea to plan out your garden layout. Think about the amount of sunlight each plant needs, as well as their height and spacing requirements. You don't want to plant tall plants next to short ones, or plants that need full sun in the shade.

Small

If you're new to gardening, it's best to small and experiment with a few companion plants at a time. This will give you a chance to observe how the plants interact with each other and make adjustments as needed.

Companion Plants for Runner Beans

Here are some plants that make good companions for runner beans:

Corn

Corn and runner beans are a classic combination. The corn provides support for the beans to climb and the beans add nitrogen to the soil that the corn needs to grow.

Squash

Squash plants have large leaves that provide shade and help retain moisture in the soil. They also deter pests like squash bugs and cucumber beetles.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers and runner beans grow well together because they have similar nutrient needs. The cucumber vines can also provide support for the bean plants.

How to Care for Runner Beans

Runner beans are easy to care for, but there are a few things you should keep in mind:

Watering

Runner beans need regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilizing

Since runner beans are nitrogen-fixing plants, they don't need much fertilizer. However, if your soil is low in nutrients, you can add some organic compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting.

Pest Control

Runner beans are generally pest-resistant, but they can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. If you notice any pests, try spraying the plants with a mixture of water and dish soap.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I plant runner beans next to tomatoes?

Yes, you can plant runner beans next to tomatoes. However, it's best to give them plenty of space since both plants can grow quite tall.

2. How far apart should I plant my runner beans?

Runner beans should be planted about 6 inches apart and 2 inches deep.

3. Are runner beans easy to grow?

Yes, runner beans are easy to grow and require minimal care.

4. Can I eat the leaves of runner beans?

Yes, the leaves of runner beans are edible and can be cooked like spinach or added to salads.

5. When is the best time to harvest runner beans?

Runner beans can be harvested when the pods are about 6-8 inches long and still tender. It's best to harvest them regularly to encourage more growth.


Companion planting with runner beans is a great way to improve soil health, deter pests, and increase yields. By choosing the right companion plants and taking care of your garden, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh vegetables without using harmful chemicals. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just ing out, give companion planting with runner beans a try and see the difference it can make in your garden.