WSU Extension Q&A: Which bean — pole or bush — would be most efficient in small garden space?
Q. I have a small vegetable garden. Are pole beans or bush beans the most efficient use of garden space?
A. Bush beans can be planted closer to one another and will produce more beans at one time than planting of pole beans. Pole beans tend to be more indeterminate, meaning they will produce beans for a longer period of time, providing a more continuous supply of beans. Also, if you have limited garden space, pole beans may provide too much shade for adjacent plants.
Q. Now that my daffodils and tulips are done blooming, I want to cut back the tops because they look ugly. A gardening friend of mine said I should wait. How long should I wait?
A. These green leaves need to remain to replenish the bulbs for next spring’s blooms. If you cut them off before they turn yellow, it is likely that they will not bloom again. Many gardeners like to plant annuals around them to hide the leaves.
Q. If I cut my alfalfa early, will it hurt my alfalfa stand?
A. The yield will be lower from an early cut, although much of it will be made up from other cuttings. Second cuttings may also regrow slower than if alfalfa had been cut at a more mature stage, especially if your alfalfa has experienced other stresses. You must be sure to allow a longer than normal recovery after either the first or the second cutting if you want to maintain long-term stands.
Glenn Shewmaker, forage specialist for University of Idaho, said in research at Kimberly, Idaho: Although forage quality certainly benefits from earlier cutting, alfalfa yields will be reduced if you cut consistently less than 28 days.
Q. How can parents or guardians be involved in their kids’ 4-H club?
A. Parents and guardians can help as much as they would like. Whether it’s making snacks for a meeting or becoming a project leader, there is always room for parents and guardians. To be a recognized 4-H volunteer, you must successfully complete a volunteer application and screening process. General and project leaders must complete the one-time Volunteer Leader Training Series. Materials are available at bit.ly/volunteer_leaders.
Questions should be called in to the WSU Extension offices in Kennewick at 509-735-3551 or Pasco at 509-545-3511.
This story was originally published May 15, 2016 at 7:35 AM with the headline "WSU Extension Q&A: Which bean — pole or bush — would be most efficient in small garden space?."