Runner Bean
Tall, climbing beans with pretty red flowers and big crops. Needs a sturdy frame of canes to climb up.
Things to look out for
- Build a strong support — plants get heavy when in full crop
- Water well at flowering or pods won’t set
- Pick often — beans turn stringy if left too long
What to sow
Sow in deep pots indoors, or straight outside once soil is warm. Push seeds in about a thumb deep.
UK window: Apr–May (indoors), May–Jun (direct)
What to plant out
Set up a wigwam or row of canes first. Plant one young plant at the base of each cane and tie in gently.
UK window: May–Jun (after frost)
How to care
Water well, especially once flowers appear — dry plants drop their flowers. Pinch out the tip when plants reach the top of the canes.
When to harvest
Pick beans young and tender, every 2–3 days. Regular picking keeps new pods coming for weeks.
UK window: Jul–Oct