Scarlet Runner Bean

Runner beans require well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8 and full sun exposure to grow successfully. They prefer fertile soil with plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. Sow runner beans after the last frost when the soil has warmed up to at least 50°F. The plants require consistent moisture but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Adding a layer of mulch around the plants can help maintain soil moisture and prevent weeds. Additionally, runner beans require support structures, such as trellises or poles, to climb and grow properly.

Sow seed outdoors after soil temperatures have warmed, placing seeds 4-6" apart, 1" deep in rows 36-48" apart. Under ideal conditions, germination should occur in 8-12 days.

Not recommended for runner beans.

Insect Pests

Runner beans may be affected by a number of insect pests, including aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, and bean beetles. Aphids and whiteflies can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Spider mites can be controlled by regularly misting the plants to dislodge the insects. Bean beetles can be controlled by handpicking them off the plants or using an insect trap.

Diseases & Other Problems

Runner beans are susceptible to various diseases, including bean rust, anthracnose, bacterial blight, and powdery mildew. Crop rotation, providing adequate spacing, and avoiding overhead watering can help control these diseases. Poor pollination, leading to misshapen or no pods, can be avoided by hand-pollinating flowers or planting pollinator-attracting plants. Overfertilization can cause excessive vegetative growth, resulting in fewer flowers and pods.

Runner beans can be harvested as snap beans when the pods are firm and crisp, but before the seeds start to bulge. Cut the pods from the vine with a sharp knife or scissors. Store the beans in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, blanch the beans in boiling water for 3 minutes, cool them quickly in ice water, and freeze them in airtight containers. Alternatively, dry the beans by leaving the pods on the vine until they turn brown and start to dry out. Remove the beans from the pods and store them in a cool, dry place in airtight containers.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Runner beans are self-pollinating and generally do not require isolation to prevent cross-pollination. However, if you want to save seeds from specific varieties or if other bean varieties are grown nearby, isolation may be necessary to maintain seed purity. Bees and other pollinators can cross-pollinate between different bean varieties, leading to hybridization and a loss of genetic purity. To prevent this, separate different bean varieties by at least 10-15 feet or use physical barriers, such as netting or row covers.

HARVESTING SEED:

To extract the seeds from runner beans, allow the pods to dry on the plant until they turn brown and start to dry out. Once the pods are dry, remove them from the plant and shell the beans from the pod. You can do this by hand, or by placing the pods in a cloth sack and stomping on them. Separate the seeds from the chaff by winnowing, which involves tossing the seeds and chaff into the air and letting the wind blow away the lighter chaff while the heavier seeds fall back into a container. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place in airtight containers until ready to use.

SEED LONGETIVITY:

Runner bean seeds can maintain their viability for up to 5 years or more, depending on how they are stored. To maximize seed viability, store the seeds in a cool, dry place in airtight containers. Avoid exposing the seeds to moisture or extreme temperatures, which can reduce their viability over time.