Unwins Runner Bean Scarlet Emperor

Sowing Time

Harvest Time

Plant Spacing

60cm (24in)

20cm (8in)

Sowing Indoors

• Sow individual seeds 2.5cm (1in) deep in 8cm (3in) pots of seed and potting compost.
• Keep the pots in a frost free greenhouse
• Ensure the compost remains moist at all times, but not saturated
• Gradually accustom the young plants to outside conditions 2-3 weeks before planting them out at their cropping positions from late May onwards, when the danger of frost has passed
• Ensure supports are in place before planting out
• Allow 20cm (8in) between plants in the row

Sowing Outdoors

• Sow two seeds close together 5cm(2in) deep, at intervals of 20cm (8in)
• Runner beans require support and it is best to have this in place before you sow

Support

• As runner beans climb, they will need support
• A frame of canes and strong netting is ideal, or the beans can be grown up wigworms of sticks or canes, where they become a decorative feature in the garden
• Ensure any structure is at least 180cm (6ft) high
• Plants will climb and twine naturally as they grow

Aftercare

• Runner beans require plenty of water to produce a good crop
• Water generously in dry spells
• When plants are in full flower, an occasional midday spraying with a fine rose encourages the flower set and bean production
• Runner beans are generally disease and trouble free
• They thrive in a sunny position which is not exposed to cold winds

Harvest

• Pick the beans when they are young and tender
• This encourages plants to remain productive longer

Freezing

• Runner beans freeze well
• Simply slice, blanch them in boiling water for a minute or two, drain, allow to cool, then bag them for the freezer

Growing Tips

• Runner Bean seed is sensitive to cold, wet soils and will not germinate in unfavourable conditions
• We  recommend that you do not sow seed outdoors before mid May