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

US · USDA Zone 6a · zones 5b, 6a, 6b

Won't grow here

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

Plant zones

8a–11b

Massachusetts last frost

early April

Massachusetts first frost

late October

Days to harvest

60–80 days

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

Start indoors

Mar 11

Transplant

Apr 1

Harvest

May 31 – Jun 20

Dates are approximate, based on Massachusetts'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 Massachusetts

Massachusetts has a humid continental climate. Boston and coastal areas are Zone 6a-6b; inland areas are colder at Zone 5b-6a. Four seasons with a 5-6 month growing window.