What Do Bean Plants Need to Survive?

Soil

• They will grow in a wide range of soil types, but sandy loam is ideal. Bean plants thrive in soil that is neutral to slightly acidic, with an ideal pH between 6 and 6.8. Add manure, compost or other organic fertilizer to the soil before planting to help beans get the nutrients they need.

Light and Moisture

• Beans need lots of sunlight, so plant them in a location with full sun exposure. Ample water is also important, but too much can be detrimental. The soil they grow in should be moist, but well-drained; excessively wet soil can prevent germination and suffocate the plant's roots.

Temperature

• Beans grow best in a warm climate and are highly sensitive to cold temperatures. A hard frost can significantly damage or even kill your young bean plants, so do not plant them outdoors until all danger of frost has passed.