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

US · USDA Zone 8b · zones 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b

Grows well here

Yard-long beans thrive in your warm zone — a productive climber that loves the heat.

Plant zones

8a–11b

Washington last frost

late January

Washington first frost

mid-December

Days to harvest

60–80 days

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

Start indoors

Jan 9

Transplant

Jan 30

Harvest

Mar 31 – Apr 20

Dates are approximate, based on Washington'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 Washington

Washington has dramatically different climates. The wet maritime west (Zone 8a-8b) is mild and productive year-round. Eastern Washington is semi-arid and colder (Zone 5-6) with hot dry summers.