Sowing Indoors

Sow individual seeds 2.5cm (1in) deep in 8cm (3in) pots of seed and potting compost. Keep 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 for 2 - 3 weeks before planting them out to their cropping positions form late May onwards, when the danger of frost has passed.

Ensure supports are in place before planting out. Allow 30cm (12in) between plants in the row.

Sowing Outdoors

Sow two seeds close together 5cm (2in) deep, at intervals of 20cm (8in). Runner bean seed is sensitive to cold, wet soils and will not germinate in unfavourable conditions.

We therefore recommend you do not sow seed outdoors before May. Runner beans require support (see below) and it is best to have this in place before you sow.

Support

As these French beans climb, they will need support. A frame of canes and strong netting is ideal, or the beans can be grown up wigwams 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

French beans require plenty of water to produce a good crop. Water generously in dry spells.

Special note

French 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.