Dried or fresh, shelled or whole, beans are a favourite crop for home vegetable gardens. They are easy to grow, and the range of plant sizes means there is room for beans in just about any garden.

Among the hundreds of varieties available, there are types that thrive in every section of the country.These are further divided according to growth habit. Bush types are generally self-supporting. Pole beans have twining vines that require support from stakes, strings, wires, or trellises. Runner beans are similar to pole beans, although runners need cooler growing conditions. Half-runners, popular in the South, fall somewhere in between pole and bush beans.Pole beans yield two to three times more than bush beans from the same space, are easier to harvest, and many gardeners believe they are better tasting. Both types have similar requirements, except pole beans need a 5- to 8-foot-tall support. Can provide strong background or vertical element in flower garden.