Runner beans

Sow your runner bean seeds between April and July after the last frost date in your area.

Runner beans are rampant growers, so give them a sturdy support and plenty of water as they grow. A single row of beans will reward you with a near constant supply of pods in summer provided you pick them regularly to encourage the plants to keep producing. Harvest the pods when they’re about 15cm long and still tender.

Easy runner bean varieties to try: If you’re short on space, try the dwarf runner bean 'Hestia' which grows to a compact height of 45cm, needs little support and is ideal for growing on the patio. Otherwise try the red-flowered, self-pollinating runner bean ‘Firestorm’ for stringless, sweet pods grown on 3m tall vines.