SOIL TEST INFORMATION SHEET NO. V-380

Prepared by Extension Horticulturists Mike Cannon and James Boudreaux

Snap Beans

1.	Snap beans are sensitive to strongly acid soils, pH below 5.0.  Production and pod quality may be adversely affected.  Crinkled leaves, stunted growth and low yields with poor quality are symptoms of low soil pH.  Symptoms may also be confused with virus diseases.  Apply agricultural limestone should be used.  Apply lime 2-6 months before planting.

2.	Nitrogen Fertilization

Snap beans are not as sensitive to over-fertilization with nitrogen as Southern peas.  Apply 30-40 pounds nitrogen per acre preplant.  Many farmers sidedress handpicked snap beans with 30 pounds of nitrogen per acre at the formation of the first true leaves.  This results in a longer harvest season.

	For machine picked snap beans avoid sidedressing.

3.	Contact your county agent for additional information and help in your fertilization program.  The agent also receives a copy of this report for the parish office files.