Beans thrive in full sun and rich soil.
Bean plants prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. White household vinegar contains 5 percent acetic acid, and has a pH around 2.4, which is much too acidic to sustain bean plant growth. Instead, grow beans in fertile garden soil or a well-draining potting mix. Does this Spark an idea?
Vinegar as an Herbicide
Organic farmers and gardeners use vinegar as an inexpensive but effective herbicide. The acid in the vinegar dries the plant's leaves, effectively killing the plant. Vinegar is nonselective, meaning that it kills both weeds and beneficial plants. When diluted in water, vinegar may not kill a bean plant immediately, but it will eventually harm the plant.
Vinegar Strength
Commercial vinegar herbicides contain a 20 percent solution of acetic acid. This higher concentration is more effective at killing weeds than household vinegar. How rapidly the bean plant deteriorates depends, in part, on the strength of the vinegar solution. Commercial strength vinegar kills all plants, including beans, within a few days. Read packaging labels and wear protective eye gear, because concentrated vinegar solutions can cause severe eye and skin injury.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Plant beans in fertile, well-drained soil that has a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH. Plant beans in full sun, after all chance of frost is passed and the soil is warm. Beans fail to germinate when soils are cold. Cultivate the soil around beans lightly to remove weeds.
Bean Varieties
Green beans are most commonly grown in home gardens. These plants produce tender pods that are eaten fresh, canned or frozen. The plants grow in a compact, bush form or on long vines that require supports. Shell beans need a longer growing season because the seeds inside the pods must dry completely before use. Dried shell beans have a long storage life and are a good source of nutrition.
Tags: bean plant, acetic acid, beans fertile, household vinegar, Plant beans, plant Vinegar, slightly acidic