Start indoors or direct sow?

Direct sow beans because they germinate quickly and their roots are easily damaged during transplanting. Indoor starting is generally unnecessary except in a very short growing season.

When to start Green Beans seeds

Sow 1 to 2 weeks after the last spring frost, when the soil has warmed to at least about 60 F. Make additional small sowings every 2 to 3 weeks for a longer harvest.

How to sow the seeds

Plant seeds 1 to 1 1/2 inches deep in loose, well-drained garden soil. Space seeds according to the variety, and install a trellis or poles before sowing pole beans.

Germination

Seeds usually germinate in 6 to 10 days in warm conditions. Soil near 70 to 85 F and even, moderate moisture help seeds emerge without rotting.

Seedling care

Keep the seed bed lightly moist until seedlings emerge, then water deeply when the soil begins to dry. Thin crowded seedlings, keep weeds down, and avoid working among plants when foliage is wet.

Transplanting & hardening off

Not applicable, green beans are best direct sown. If you must use transplants, move very young seedlings with an intact root ball only after the weather is warm.

Tips

Wait for warm soil rather than planting early into cold, wet ground, where seeds often rot. Avoid soaking bean seeds for long periods before planting, since overly wet seeds can split or decay.

General seed-starting guidance for US home gardens; timing depends on your local frost dates and variety. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.