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Can You Grow Yard-Long Beans (Snake Beans) in Alaska?

US · USDA Zone 4b · zones 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b

Won't grow here

Yard-long beans need sustained heat and humidity and cannot complete their season in your zone.

Plant zones

8a–11b

Alaska last frost

mid-April

Alaska first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

60–80 days

When to plant Yard-Long Beans (Snake Beans)s in Alaska

Start indoors

Mar 25

Transplant

Apr 15

Harvest

Jun 14 – Jul 4

Dates are approximate, based on Alaska's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Yard-Long Beans (Snake Beans)

Yard-long beans (snake beans, Chinese long beans, lobia) are a heat-loving climbing bean producing tender pods up to 3 feet long. Popular across Indian, Chinese, and Southeast Asian cuisines — used in dry-fried dishes, curries, and stir-fries.

Direct sow after soil warms to 65°F. Provide a sturdy trellis — vines grow 8-10 feet. Harvest at 12-18 inches for best texture — longer pods become tough. Pick every 2-3 days during peak. Loves heat and humidity.

Full yard-long beans (snake beans) growing guide →

Gardening in Alaska

Alaska ranges from subarctic to maritime climates. The interior has very short summers but intense sunlight. Coastal areas are milder. Cold-hardy crops and greenhouses are key.