How about string secured with a few tacks.

Would you wrap around the pole or go up and down?

Dean

Dean, what I would do is to drive (4) 6" long spikes into the pole (each 90 degrees apart) a few inches above the bottom. Drive (4) matching spikes above them, as far up as you can reach (or as high as the vines will climb). For better support against strong winds, you might place an extra spike in the middle between each set. Drive the spikes in a couple inches, leaving about 4 inches sticking out. Tie strong strings between the spikes.

You will end up with 4 vertical strings, equally spaced around the circumference. Because the strings stand out from the pole, the vines will be able to climb around them... and as the leaves begin to fill in the space, the pole should be completely covered. The spikes should last for years, you'd only need to change the string each year.

Visualizing this makes me wish my telephone pole was abandoned!

I have found that beans (and peas or even cucumbers) have a strong sense of independence in their infancy and adolescence and don't willingly climb up strings or sticks.I would rather wind a layer of chicken wire around the pole and then, above the wire height, a few strings for the runners to climb.

I like the spike and string idea, simple. Something I can do.

thanks again everyone for your suggestions.

Dean