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Runner Beans

Phaseolus coccineus

INTRODUCTION

Surely the stalwart vegetable on every plot or allotment, the Runner Bean has to be one of the main items on everyone's plot plan and sowing program. 

Native to Mexico, this tender perennial is probably one of the best known and widely grown vegetables in the UK. It has been in existence for over 2200 years and is a relatively easy crop to grow - as long as careful attention is undertaken. Runner Beans are productive over a long period giving excellent yields that can be consumed fresh but are also a great subject for the freezer.

Soil Preparation

Runner beans are quite fussy about soil conditions and growing position. 

The site should be sunny, sheltered and away from prevailing winds.

For the very best crops, the soil should be deeply cultivated, rich, fertile and moisture retentive.

Ideally, prepare a trench filled with well-rotted manure well in advance of sowing or planting.

Prepare the seedbed by removing any weed from the soil and rake level to a fine tilth.

Sowing & Planting

Runner Beans are not frost hardy and all threats of frost must have passed before sowing or planting can begin.

Direct sowing into the soil can begin from mid-May onwards depending on your location. Soil temperatures should be at a minimum of 10-12oc.

Before sowing, erect a support framework from bamboo canes (2.4m/8ft) to support the growing crop. Traditionally, canes are placed in double rows with canes set at spacings of 25cm (10 inches) apart. Alternatively, set up 4 or 5 canes into a 'wigwam' formation.

Sow 3-4 seeds into each growing station at a depth of 5cm (2 inches).

As an alternative to direct sowing, sow 3-4 seeds into a 10cm pot or large module tray using multi-purpose compost and place them in a greenhouse or polytunnel. Plants will develop quickly and can be protected from inclement weather.

Growing & General Cultivation

Keep growing crops weed-free and well-watered. Watering is particularly important while flowers are setting, drought conditions will result in poor harvests.

Mulch plants if possible to conserve moisture.

As plants grow, encourage the growing shoots to wrap around supports and tie in if necessary. After this point, they will take care of themselves.

When the shoots have reached the top of the supports, pinch out growing tips to encourage side growth.

Pests & Diseases

Runner Beans are relatively pest and disease-free.

The biggest problem is failure of plants to set flowers and in turn, beans. Keep plants very well watered especially during hot weather.

Mice may dig up directly sown seed. If this is a problem, raise plants in pots.

Slugs and Snails can be a problem for young plants in the early stages of growth, especially with direct sown crops. For remedies - see Product Directory. 

Black Bean Aphid feeds on plant sap and can be unsightly. Spray with an organic pesticide - see Product Directory. 

Halo Blight is spread by water and appears as yellowing on the foliage which if left will die off. Severe outbreaks will result in reduced harvests. Remove affected foliage as soon as the problem shows up.

Root Rot can occur if plants are trying to establish in poorly drained soils. Soil should be moisture-retentive but well-drained.

Harvesting

Crops will be ready to harvest after about 12 weeks.

Carefully detach beans from plants taking care not to damage remaining growth.

Harvest before beans become old and stringy.

Crop 2-3 times a week to encourage further flower/bean formation. 

Plants should continue to crop until the first frosts. 

Old beans can be left on the plants to dry out and be used for home-saved seed, but if growing more than one variety, cross-pollination may occur and varieties may not come true.

Runner Beans are always at their best when consumed immediately, however, excess harvests make an excellent candidate for the freezer. 

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