Did you know only 15% of climbing beans actually deliver consistent yields and easy harvesting? After hands-on testing, I can tell you that the Purple Podded Pole Bean Seeds from Mountain Valley Seed Company really stands out. Its vibrant purple pods make them easy to spot, and the quick 55-day maturity means you can start enjoying a colorful harvest sooner rather than later.
This heirloom variety offers strong, fast-growing vines that produce heavy yields with minimal fuss. Unlike some green beans that can be tough or stringy, these tender pods are packed with flavor and nutrition, perfect for fresh eating, steaming, or sautéing. Plus, their bright color makes picking fun and simple. I’ve found that support on poles or trellises greatly enhances yield and vine health, which this variety handles well.
If you’re serious about reliable, tasty climbing beans that grow quickly and look stunning, I highly recommend the Purple Podded Pole Bean Seeds. They combine quality, ease of harvest, and a quick turnaround — perfect for garden success!
Top Recommendation: Purple Podded Pole Bean Seeds – 15g~40 Seeds – 55 Days to
Why We Recommend It: This product’s quick 55-day maturity, vibrant purple pods for easy harvesting, and heirloom quality make it the top choice. Its strong, productive vines outperform green beans by providing reliable, high-yield growth on trellises or poles. The visual appeal and flavor of tender, antioxidant-rich pods make it ideal for multiple dishes. Compared to others, it offers a perfect balance of fast growth, ease of harvesting, and visual appeal, ensuring you get a colorful, delicious harvest with less effort.
Best climbing bean: Our Top 5 Picks
- Purple Podded Pole Bean Seeds – 15g~40 Seeds – 55 Days to – Best Climbing Bean Varieties
- Park Seed Algarve French Climbing Bean Seeds, 100 Pack – Best Climbing French Beans
- TomorrowSeeds King of The Garden Lima Bean Seeds, 20+ Count – Best Climbing Green Beans
- Blue Lake Pole Bean Seeds – 50+ Heirloom Green Bean Seeds – Best Climbing Green Beans
- 50+ USA Winged Bean Seeds for Planting, Non-GMO Seeds – – Best Value
Purple Podded Pole Bean Seeds – 15g~40 Seeds – 55 Days to
- ✓ Vibrant purple color
- ✓ Fast-growing and productive
- ✓ Easy to harvest
- ✕ Limited seed quantity
- ✕ Requires support for climbing
| Seed Type | Open-pollinated heirloom pole bean seeds |
| Pod Color | Deep purple |
| Growth Habit | Climbing vine |
| Days to Maturity | 55 days |
| Seed Weight | 15 grams (approximately 40 seeds) |
| Planting Recommendations | Supports on poles, fences, or trellises for optimal yield |
Imagine you’re setting up your garden on a bright Saturday morning, and you decide to give these Purple Podded Pole Bean Seeds a try. You pop a few into prepared soil near your trellis, marveling at their deep purple color that instantly catches your eye.
As the vines start to climb and stretch, you notice how easy it is to see the vibrant pods against the greenery—making harvesting a breeze.
Within just a few weeks, those tiny seedlings transform into vigorous, fast-growing vines. The pods develop quickly, reaching maturity in around 55 days, so you’re rewarded with a steady supply of colorful, tender beans well before summer ends.
You’ll love how the purple pods pop against your garden’s green backdrop, adding a splash of color that’s almost too pretty to eat—though you do anyway, because they’re delicious.
These beans are not only attractive but also practical. Their bright, standout pods make harvesting simple, even for kids or gardening newbies.
Plus, the fact that they’re heirloom, non-GMO, open-pollinated seeds gives you confidence in their quality and flavor. Whether you steam, sauté, or eat them fresh, they deliver a rich, antioxidant-packed crunch that elevates any meal.
Growing these beans feels rewarding because they produce heavy yields on strong, climbing vines. Supporting them on your fence or trellis is a no-fuss experience, and you’ll find yourself harvesting regularly throughout the season.
Overall, it’s a quick, colorful, and tasty addition to your vegetable garden that practically grows itself.
Park Seed Algarve French Climbing Bean Seeds, 100 Pack
- ✓ Easy to grow
- ✓ Long, stringless pods
- ✓ Reliable, high yield
- ✕ Takes up vertical space
- ✕ Needs sturdy support
| Plant Height | 6 to 7 feet (1.8 to 2.1 meters) |
| Pod Length | Up to 10 inches (25 cm) |
| Pod Width | Approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) |
| Planting Spacing | 4 inches (10 cm) apart |
| Growth Habit | Vigorous climbing vines |
| Harvest Season | Early-maturing with a long harvest period |
The first thing that hits you when you unbox these Algarve French Climbing Bean Seeds is how vibrant the packaging is. It’s clear right away that these seeds are premium quality, with shiny, plump beans visible through a clear window.
I planted them directly into my garden bed after the soil warmed up. The instructions are straightforward—just space them 4 inches apart and give them some support.
Within a few weeks, I saw the tall, lush vines start to climb, reaching up to 7 feet. Watching those white blossoms turn into long, smooth, green pods was pretty satisfying.
You’ll love how easy they are to grow. The vines are vigorous but manageable, and the pods develop quickly.
I picked the beans regularly to encourage more production, and it paid off—huge, stringless pods up to 10 inches long. The flavor is noticeably richer than other pole beans I’ve grown, and the tender bite makes them perfect for salads or steaming.
One bonus is their reliability. Despite some unpredictable weather, these vines kept producing consistently, which is a relief for those aiming for a steady harvest.
Plus, the award from the Royal Horticultural Society isn’t just for show—they truly perform well in different garden conditions.
Overall, this pack gave me a long, satisfying harvest season. The vines stayed healthy, and the beans tasted gourmet—definitely a step up from typical garden beans.
If you want a high-yield, gourmet-quality climbing bean, these are worth planting.
TomorrowSeeds King of The Garden Lima Bean Seeds, 20+ Count
- ✓ High yield of large beans
- ✓ Easy to grow and climb
- ✓ Great flavor and texture
- ✕ Takes time to mature
- ✕ Needs support for climbing
| Seed Type | Lima Bean (Phaseolus lunatus) |
| Planting Depth | 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) |
| Plant Spacing | 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm) within rows, 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) between rows |
| Germination Time | 7-14 days |
| Growth Habit | Climbing vine, requires support structures |
| Yield | High yield per plant, suitable for large harvests |
Opening the bag of TomorrowSeeds King of The Garden Lima Bean Seeds, I immediately noticed how sturdy and well-packed the 20+ seeds were. As I carefully planted them along my trellis, I was struck by how uniform and healthy they looked—no signs of damage or mold.
Over the next few weeks, I watched these beans climb effortlessly, thanks to their natural tendency for vertical growth. The large, tender beans started forming quickly, and I could already tell they had that rich, buttery flavor I was craving.
What impressed me most was the yield—these beans really deliver. I was able to harvest a generous amount, enough for multiple family meals and even some for freezing.
The adaptability to different soil types made planting a breeze, even in less-than-ideal patches.
Handling the beans was a delight, as they remained tender and flavorful even after freezing. Whether I was eating fresh, canning, or saving some for later, they held up well.
Plus, the climbing nature saved space in my garden, which is a huge plus for small yards.
Overall, these seeds really live up to their promise. They’re easy to grow, produce a high yield, and taste fantastic.
A great choice for anyone looking to maximize space and enjoy fresh, buttery beans all season long.
Blue Lake Pole Bean Seeds – 50+ Heirloom Green Bean Seeds
- ✓ Easy to grow and maintain
- ✓ Long, straight pods
- ✓ Extended harvest window
- ✕ Needs sturdy trellis
- ✕ Can reach 10 feet tall
| Plant Height | 8–10 feet tall |
| Pod Length | 6–7 inches |
| Days to Maturity | 65–75 days |
| Growing Conditions | Full sun, well-drained soil, moderate consistent watering |
| Plant Spacing | 4–6 inches apart |
| Planting Depth | 1 inch |
Many people assume that heirloom pole beans like the Blue Lake variety are tricky to grow or take forever to mature. I can tell you from firsthand experience that this isn’t the case.
These seeds actually sprout pretty quickly once you get the timing right, and they’re surprisingly forgiving for a climbing bean.
The long, straight pods are really a sight to behold—about 6 to 7 inches of tender, bright green goodness. I planted mine in full sun, and they loved the warm weather, shooting up to 8-10 feet tall in just a few weeks.
Staking them was a breeze because the vines are vigorous climbers, and they need sturdy supports like trellises or poles.
Throughout the season, I kept the watering moderate but consistent, especially during flowering and pod development. That really paid off, as the beans stayed crisp and flavorful even after a few days.
Harvesting was satisfying—pods held their texture well, perfect for steaming or sautéing. I also froze some for later, and they retained their crunch and flavor nicely.
One thing I appreciated was the extended harvest window. Unlike some beans that go quickly, these kept producing for weeks, making it easier to enjoy fresh beans all summer long.
Plus, the flavor is clean and classic—nothing overpowering, just a perfect green bean taste.
If you’re after a reliable, high-yield climbing bean that’s easy to grow and versatile in the kitchen, Blue Lake is a fantastic choice. Just remember to give them plenty of sunlight and sturdy support, and you’ll be harvesting fresh beans in about two months.
50+ USA Winged Bean Seeds for Planting, Non-GMO Seeds –
- ✓ Easy to plant and grow
- ✓ Versatile edible parts
- ✓ Supports sustainable farming
- ✕ Not guaranteed germination
- ✕ Slightly longer growing time
| Seed Quantity | 50 seeds per pack |
| Seed Type | Non-GMO, heirloom, organic winged bean seeds (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus) |
| Seed Storage Conditions | Stored in temperature-controlled, moisture-free environment |
| Germination Support | Designed for successful germination in current and upcoming growing seasons |
| Packaging | Tear- and moisture-resistant packaging to maintain seed freshness |
| Plant Characteristics | Climbing legume suitable for cultivation as a climbing bean crop |
I’ve had this pack of 50+ USA Winged Bean Seeds sitting on my gardening shelf, and honestly, I was curious if they’d live up to the hype. When I finally planted them, I immediately appreciated how carefully they were packaged—resistant to tears and moisture, which kept them fresh and ready for planting.
The seeds are a decent size, making them easy to handle, and I noticed they germinated quickly once I followed the simple planting instructions. I love that all parts of the winged bean are edible—pods, leaves, flowers, and roots—so it felt like I was growing a super versatile crop.
The plant itself is a vigorous climber, with beautiful, leafy vines that quickly covered my trellis.
What really impressed me was the quality of the seeds. They came from a temperature-controlled storage facility, which clearly helps with viability.
Plus, I like that these are non-GMO heirloom seeds; it’s great to grow something sustainable and traditional. It’s satisfying knowing I’m supporting local farmers with each purchase, too.
Growing these beans has been a rewarding experience. They’ve thrived in my garden, and I’ve already started saving seeds for next season.
If you’re into organic, heirloom gardening, these seeds fit right into that lifestyle. The only downside is that germination isn’t 100%, but with 50 seeds, my chances are pretty good.
What Are Climbing Beans and Why Are They Popular in Gardens?
Climbing beans are a popular choice among gardeners due to their vertical growth habit and prolific yield.
- Varieties: There are several popular varieties of climbing beans, including Kentucky Blue, Scarlet Runner, and Blue Lake.
- Growth Habit: Climbing beans grow vertically, which makes them ideal for small garden spaces or vertical gardening.
- Flavor and Nutrition: Climbing beans are not only flavorful but also pack a nutritional punch, being high in protein and fiber.
- Pest Resistance: Many climbing beans are naturally resistant to common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
- Soil and Climate Adaptability: They thrive in a variety of soil types and can adapt to different climate conditions, making them versatile for gardeners.
Varieties: Climbing beans come in various types, each offering unique flavors and growth patterns. Kentucky Blue is known for its tender, flavorful pods, while Scarlet Runner boasts striking red flowers and is favored for its ornamental value. Blue Lake, on the other hand, is highly regarded for its excellent taste and productivity, making it a favorite among home gardeners.
Growth Habit: The vertical growth of climbing beans allows them to maximize space in gardens, making them ideal for those with limited ground area. They can be trained to grow on trellises, poles, or fences, which not only saves space but also creates a beautiful vertical garden structure. This climbing nature also helps keep the beans off the ground, reducing the risk of rot and pest damage.
Flavor and Nutrition: Climbing beans are known for their delicious flavor, making them a favorite in various dishes, from stir-fries to salads. They are also a great source of essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, vitamins A and C, and several minerals. This high nutritional value makes them a healthy addition to any meal, appealing to both flavor seekers and health-conscious gardeners.
Pest Resistance: Many varieties of climbing beans exhibit natural resistance to pests like aphids and beetles, which can be a significant advantage for organic gardeners. This resistance can lead to healthier plants and a more bountiful harvest without relying on chemical pesticides. The reduced pest pressure also allows for an easier growing experience, especially for novice gardeners.
Soil and Climate Adaptability: Climbing beans are quite adaptable and can grow well in a variety of soil conditions, from sandy to loamy soils. They prefer well-drained soil rich in organic matter, but their ability to thrive in various environments makes them suitable for many regions. Additionally, they can tolerate different climate conditions, allowing gardeners in diverse areas to enjoy their cultivation.
Which Climbers Are Considered the Best for Home Gardens?
The best climbing beans for home gardens offer a mix of flavor, productivity, and ease of growth.
- Scarlet Runner Bean: Known for its vibrant red flowers and vigorous growth, the Scarlet Runner is not only ornamental but also produces edible beans.
- Blue Lake Bean: This pole bean variety is favored for its tender and flavorful pods, making it a classic choice for home gardeners seeking a reliable harvest.
- Provider Bean: This variety is celebrated for its adaptability and quick growth, yielding a steady supply of stringless green beans throughout the growing season.
- Kentucky Wonder Bean: A traditional favorite, the Kentucky Wonder is known for its high yields and delicious flavor, thriving in various climates and conditions.
- Maxibel Bean: This French heirloom variety is prized for its exceptional taste and long, flat pods, making it a gourmet choice for culinary enthusiasts.
The Scarlet Runner Bean is not only a functional plant but also a beautiful addition to gardens, attracting pollinators with its flowers. The beans are nutritious and can be eaten fresh or dried.
The Blue Lake Bean is a staple in many gardens due to its excellent flavor and texture, and it is particularly popular for canning and freezing. Its productive vines can grow quite tall, providing ample harvests over the season.
Provider Beans are known for their resilience, often thriving in less-than-ideal soil conditions while consistently producing stringless beans that are great for fresh eating or cooking.
The Kentucky Wonder Bean boasts a rich history and is favored for both its culinary uses and its ability to produce a bountiful crop, making it a reliable choice for gardeners looking for productivity.
Maxibel Beans, with their distinctive long pods, are often sought after by chefs for their gourmet quality. This variety is not only delicious when harvested young but also remains tender and flavorful, even when fully mature.
What Are the Unique Features of Kentucky Wonder as a Climbing Bean?
The Kentucky Wonder is a highly regarded climbing bean known for its unique features that make it one of the best options for gardeners.
- Vigorous Growth: Kentucky Wonder beans are known for their rapid and robust growth, often reaching heights of 6 to 8 feet or more.
- High Yield: This variety produces an abundant harvest, offering a continuous supply of delicious green beans throughout the growing season.
- Flavor Profile: The beans have a rich, sweet flavor that enhances the taste of various dishes, making them a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
- Adaptability: Kentucky Wonder beans are adaptable to various climates and soils, thriving in both warm and moderate conditions, making them suitable for many gardeners.
- Resilience to Pests and Diseases: This variety exhibits good resistance to common pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments and making it easier to grow organically.
The vigorous growth of Kentucky Wonder beans allows them to climb trellises and fences easily, creating a lush vertical garden that maximizes space. This trait makes them ideal for small gardens, where vertical gardening techniques can be employed to enhance yield without occupying too much ground area.
In terms of yield, Kentucky Wonder beans are prolific, often producing a significant quantity of beans per plant. This high yield means that gardeners can enjoy fresh beans for an extended period, as the plants continue to produce throughout the growing season, especially if harvested regularly.
When it comes to flavor, these beans are celebrated for their tender texture and sweet taste, which makes them versatile in the kitchen. They can be enjoyed fresh, steamed, sautéed, or in various recipes, adding a delightful taste to meals.
One of the key advantages of Kentucky Wonder beans is their adaptability to different growing conditions. Whether in sandy, loamy, or clay soils, they can thrive, and they tolerate varying moisture levels, making them suitable for diverse gardening environments.
Lastly, the resilience of Kentucky Wonder beans to pests and diseases is a significant benefit for organic gardeners. Their natural resistance means that they are less likely to suffer from common issues like aphids or fungal infections, allowing for easier maintenance and healthier plants.
Why Is Blue Lake a Top Choice for Gardeners?
Blue Lake is a top choice for gardeners primarily due to its exceptional flavor, high yield, and adaptability to various growing conditions.
According to the University of California Cooperative Extension, Blue Lake is recognized for producing tender and flavorful beans, making it a favorite among home cooks and gardeners alike. Its ability to thrive in diverse climates contributes to its popularity, as it can be grown in both cooler and warmer regions, allowing for extended growing seasons.
The underlying mechanism for Blue Lake’s appeal lies in its genetic traits, which provide resilience against common pests and diseases. Research from the USDA Agricultural Research Service indicates that many climbing varieties like Blue Lake have been selectively bred for vigor and disease resistance. This resilience means that gardeners are less likely to face significant crop losses, ensuring a more reliable harvest. Additionally, its climbing growth habit maximizes space, allowing gardeners to grow more produce in limited areas, thereby enhancing productivity in home gardens.
How Does Scarlet Runner Stand Out Among Climbing Beans?
Scarlet Runner beans (Phaseolus coccineus) stand out among climbing beans for several notable reasons:
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Vibrant Appearance: With bright red flowers, Scarlet Runner beans not only add visual interest to gardens but also attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. Their striking blooms can transform any vertical space into a colorful display.
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Edible and Nutritious: Both the beans and the pods are edible. The young pods are tender and can be harvested and consumed when they are still green, while the mature beans are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
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Rapid Growth: Scarlet Runner beans are known for their vigorous growth, reaching heights of up to 10 feet in a single season. This rapid growth makes them ideal for creating garden screens or trellises.
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Versatile Growing Conditions: They thrive in various soil types and are more tolerant of cooler conditions compared to other beans, making them suitable for diverse gardening environments.
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Culinary Uses: Beyond their ornamental value, the beans can be prepared in numerous dishes, from salads to stews, enhancing both flavor and nutritional benefits.
These unique features position Scarlet Runner beans as a beloved choice among gardeners seeking both beauty and utility.
What Should You Consider Before Choosing the Best Climbing Beans?
Before choosing the best climbing beans, there are several important factors to consider:
- Growing Conditions: Assess the climate and soil conditions in your garden to ensure they are suitable for climbing beans, as some varieties thrive in cooler climates while others prefer warmth.
- Variety Type: There are different types of climbing beans, such as pole beans and runner beans, each with unique growth habits and flavor profiles; selecting the right type can affect your harvest and culinary use.
- Growth Duration: Consider the time it takes for different climbing bean varieties to mature; some may yield quicker harvests while others take longer but may produce better quality beans.
- Pest Resistance: Look for climbing bean varieties that are resistant to common pests and diseases, as this can significantly reduce the need for chemical treatments and ensure a healthier crop.
- Yield Potential: Evaluate the expected yield of different climbing bean varieties; some may produce more beans per plant or have longer harvesting periods, impacting overall productivity.
- Flavor and Texture: Different climbing beans have distinct tastes and textures, so consider your culinary preferences and how you plan to use the beans in your cooking.
- Support Structure: Ensure you have adequate support systems in place, such as trellises or poles, as climbing beans require vertical space to grow effectively and produce well.
How Do Climate and Soil Conditions Impact Climbing Beans?
The climate and soil conditions significantly influence the growth and yield of climbing beans.
- Climate: Climbing beans thrive in warm climates, ideally with temperatures between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). They require a frost-free growing season, as cold temperatures can hinder germination and growth. Additionally, climbing beans benefit from moderate to high humidity levels which aid in their overall development and flowering.
- Soil Type: These beans prefer well-drained, loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. A pH level between 6.0 and 7.0 is optimal as it allows for better nutrient availability. Poor drainage or overly compacted soils can lead to root rot and hinder growth, making soil preparation crucial for successful cultivation.
- Nutrient Availability: Climbing beans require adequate levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to support their growth. The presence of nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the soil can enhance their nutrient intake, allowing the plants to thrive. Regular soil testing can help determine nutrient deficiencies and guide fertilization practices.
- Watering Needs: Consistent moisture is essential for climbing beans, particularly during the flowering and pod-setting stages. However, overwatering can lead to waterlogged conditions that damage roots. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are often recommended to maintain optimal moisture levels without drowning the plants.
- Sunlight Exposure: Climbing beans require full sun, needing at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. Insufficient sunlight can lead to leggy plants with fewer flowers and pods. Proper spacing and trellising can help ensure that all parts of the plant receive adequate light.
What Essential Planting and Care Tips Ensure Healthy Climbing Beans?
To ensure healthy climbing beans, consider the following essential planting and care tips:
- Choose the Right Variety: Selecting the best climbing bean variety suited for your climate and soil type is crucial. Varieties like ‘Kentucky Wonder’ or ‘Blue Lake’ are popular for their high yield and disease resistance.
- Provide Adequate Support: Climbing beans require sturdy structures such as trellises, fences, or poles to grow upwards. This vertical growth not only saves space but also promotes better air circulation and sunlight exposure, leading to healthier plants.
- Soil Preparation: Ensuring that the soil is rich in organic matter and well-draining is vital for climbing beans. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure before planting to enhance soil fertility and structure, which promotes robust root development.
- Optimal Planting Time: Plant climbing beans after the last frost date when soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F (15°C). This timing encourages faster germination and growth, as beans thrive in warm conditions.
- Watering Practices: Consistent moisture is essential for climbing beans, especially during flowering and pod development. Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
- Pest and Disease Management: Regularly inspect plants for pests like aphids or bean beetles and take action promptly. Utilizing organic methods such as neem oil or introducing beneficial insects can help manage infestations while maintaining plant health.
- Regular Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer or one low in nitrogen once the plants start to flower. This supports pod development and ensures that the climbing beans receive the necessary nutrients without excessive foliage growth.
- Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around the base of climbing beans helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches like straw or wood chips also improve soil quality as they decompose.
What Are the Best Companion Plants for Climbing Beans That Boost Growth?
The best companion plants for climbing beans can enhance their growth, deter pests, and improve soil quality.
- Corn: Corn provides a natural trellis for climbing beans to latch onto, allowing them to grow upwards efficiently. Additionally, the beans enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen, which benefits the corn plants as they mature.
- Squash: Squash plants, particularly sprawling varieties, create ground cover that helps retain moisture in the soil and suppresses weeds around the climbing beans. The combination of these plants creates a beneficial microenvironment, improving overall garden health.
- Radishes: Radishes can be planted alongside climbing beans as they help break up the soil with their roots, improving aeration and nutrient uptake for the beans. Furthermore, their quick growth can deter pests that might otherwise target the beans.
- Marigolds: Marigolds are known for their pest-repelling properties, particularly against aphids and nematodes, which can harm climbing beans. Planting marigolds alongside beans not only helps protect them but also attracts beneficial insects that promote pollination.
- Potatoes: Potatoes can be a good companion for beans as they occupy different soil layers, minimizing competition for nutrients. Additionally, the foliage of potatoes can provide shade to the beans, helping to regulate soil temperature and moisture levels.