Runner Beans

Question 1

Varieties

Runner beans

Answer 1

Half hardy
Enorma (AGM)
Red Rum (AGM)
White Lady (AGM)

Question 2

Planting location and soil requirements.

Answer 2

Sheltered location to protect from strong winds.
Deep, fertile soil.
Dig in well rotted manure/compost the autumn before planting.
Avoid areas used to grow legumes in the last two years.

Question 3

Sowing

Runner beans

Answer 3

April - sow under glass
Mid May - mid June - sow outside
Mid Jul - end of Oct - Harvest
Sow in situ: 5cm deep, 20cm apart, drills 50cm apart.  2seeds at each point.
Double row to allow for support.

Question 4

Special requirements

Runner beans

Answer 4

Support using bamboo canes in rows or wigwams 2.5m high.
Train young seedlings around the canes - tie in if necessary.
Pinch out the growing tip when plant reaches the top of the support.
Beans must not dry out in order to produce pods - water frequently and mulch.

Question 5

Diseases

Runner beans

Answer 5

Halo blight - dark spots ringed with yellow ‘haloes’ on leaves, remove and destroy affected leaves.
Practise careful crop rotation.

Question 6

Pest

Runner beans

Answer 6

Black fly - attracted to growing tips, pinch these out when plants reach full height.
Bed infestation may need treating with insecticide.

Question 7

Harvesting and storage.

Runner beans

Answer 7

Pick when young and tender.
Keep picking to encourage fresh pods
Store by freezing, seeds can be stored for future crops.