Runner Beans

Runner beans are usually sown April to June . Great varieties to try include Scarlet Emperor, a great favourite, Hestia, perfect for growing on the patio and Galaxy, which sets beans readily.

The ground needs to be prepared by adding organic Farmyard Manure. Garden Lime should also be used if the soil is acidic and Growmore raked in. Sow in drills 9 inches apart and 2 inches deep. Leave space for supports between drills.

Young plants will need protection from slugs using Eraza Slug & Snail Killer. Keep on top of weeds by hoeing and water regularly once the first pods have formed. Harvest once the pods reach 6-8 inches long continue to harvest daily to ensure continued production. Don’t allow pods to mature on the plant as this will make the plant stop flowering. In dry spells the flowers may drop so keep plants well watered.

Once the plants are finished with dig the bases of the stems and roots back into the soil to act as a green manure.