Common Green Bean Problems

Green beans comprise a large variety of species that share a distinct hue and familiar pod appearance. They usually grow in vines, which yield pole beans, and bushes that yield bush beans. The problems that plague these plants are very similar, despite the differences in species.

Beetles, slugs, and snails are very fond of tender green bean sprout, leaves and flowers. These insects will devour a plant to pieces in the span of a few days if not spotted early. Aphids will also attack any flowering, fruiting plant within reach. If one of your garden plants has aphids -- and many of them do -- your green beans are at risk. Pesticides can be applied, or gardeners can use a natural methods, such as drowning, to control the pest population. Ladybugs or small varieties of spiders are also aphid predators.

Viruses will occasionally attack green bean plants, but the primary worry should be fungus. Diseases that affect green beans are usually fungal. An infected plant will mold and rot even as it tries to grow back. If fungus is observed, the infected parts must be cut off quickly. If it is allowed to stay close to the rest of the plant, it will quickly infect it beyond saving. If many plants are affected, a fungicide should be tried. If this does not work, the entire section of plants will have to be culled.

Green beans are very sensitive to mold even after being harvested. Green beans must be kept in a sealed, airtight container and they must be kept dry. It is best to freeze them after being patted dry and allowed a few hours to air dry. Store them in a resealable freezer bag.

Limpness is a common problem with preparing fresh green beans. Avoid overcooking fresh green beans by blanching them. Canned green beans are often already cooked and soaked in their own juices for so long that they should just be heated, not cooked to softness.