How to intercrop the bean
How to intercrop the bean
The bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is an annual plant belonging to the Leguminosae (or Fabaceae) family native to Mexico and Central America.
This plant was imported into Europe, after the discovery of America; in the old continent there were only beans of species belonging to the Vigna genus, of Asian origin: the beans of the Phaseolus genus have spread everywhere, supplanting the group of the ancient world, as they have proven easier to grow and more profitable (compared to Vigna the yield per hectare is almost double).
The bean is grown for the seeds, harvested fresh or dried (kidney beans), or for the entire pod to be eaten fresh (green beans or croissants).
As regards their cultivation, the varieties with a longer vegetative cycle in temperate regions are sown in spring, those with a shorter cycle in summer. If species with indeterminate growth (climbers) are to be cultivated, the placement of supports is necessary.
The bean, together with other legumes, is one of the most used plants in intercropping due to its nitrogen-fixing action.
This plant goes well with the following species: basil, chard, marigold, carrot, cabbage, chicory, strawberry, lettuce, aubergine, melon, nasturtium, oregano, potato, pepper, turnip, radish, savory, celery, spinach, marigold, thyme, pumpkin and courgette. Furthermore, among the intercrops, those with cucumber and corn are very advantageous.
However, combinations with garlic, beetroot, onion, broad bean, fennel, pea, pepper, tomato, leek and shallot should be avoided.
Intercropping with beans is carried out to obtain mutual benefits in terms of growth, protection from diseases and parasites, and improvement of the soil. Here are some of the most common plants that can be associated with the bean:
Corn: This is one of the most traditional intercrops and is part of the “Three Sisters” method used by Native Americans. Corn provides natural support for runner beans.
Pumpkin: Still within the “Three Sisters,” pumpkin covers the ground with its broad leaves, helping to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Carrot: Carrots can benefit from beans’ ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving their growth.
Cucumber: Cucumber can benefit from the nitrogen added by the beans and, in turn, does not interfere with the growth of the beans.
Potato: Potatoes can also benefit from the nitrogen fixed by beans.
Turnip: Turnips grow well near beans, as they don’t compete for the same nutrients and can benefit from the nitrogen in the soil.
Spinach: Spinach can be planted between bean rows to cover the ground and suppress weeds.
Marigold: Marigolds help keep some pests away, such as nematodes and aphids, thanks to their natural repellent properties.
Oregano and Thyme: These aromatic herbs can help keep pests away and attract beneficial insects like bees.
Radish: Radishes grow quickly and can be planted between beans to maximize use of space.
Lettuce: Lettuce can be intercropped with beans, taking advantage of the space between the rows and benefiting from the partial shade provided by the bean plants.
Plants to avoid –
Some plants, however, should never be associated with beans as they can compete for nutrients or attract common pests; among these we remember:
Garlic and Onion: These can inhibit the growth of beans due to chemicals released by their roots.
Fennel: Not generally a good companion for most plants, including beans.
Peppers: May share common diseases with beans.
By intercropping well with beans, you can improve crop yields, reducing the need for pesticides and fertilizers, and creating a healthier and more productive vegetable garden.