August 4th, 2007: Runner beans

www.gardenaction.co.uk/fruit_veg_diary/fruit_veg_mini_pro...

 

Runner Beans

The ideal plant for the beginner gardener. If the soil is prepared well with lots of compost, runner beans are very forgiving vegetables. The foliage is attractive, and the red or white flowers making this a beautiful garden feature.

 

Originally a perennial plant from South America, they are grown in the UK as a half-hardy annual, being struck down each year by the frost. They produce large amounts of beans and juicy flesh which are best eaten soon after picking, but also freeze well.

 

Many varieties grow to about 2m (6ft) tall and therefore need support. Some of the more recent varieties are dwarfs and need no support making them particularly easy to grow.

RUNNER BEAN QUICK GUIDE

 

Folklore

None available

 

Latin Name

Phaseolus coccineus

 

Type

Perennial, but grown in UK as half-hardy annual.

 

Site and Soil

Full sun, sheltered from wind. Well-dug water retaining soil, do not add additional nitrogen

 

Plant to Harvest Time

13 weeks

 

How Many?

5kg (11lb) per metre (yard)

 

 

 

 

 

Done