Runner Bean Seeds Organic 'Scarlet Emperor'

• Popular, well-established variety
• Heavy crops of long smooth pods
• Excellent flavour
• Freezes well
• Organic
• Ideal for an organic garden

A gardeners' favourite for many years, red-flowered runner bean Scarlet Emperor produces heavy crops of long smooth dark green pods with excellent flavour. They’re delicious eaten fresh, and also freeze well for later use.

Sow indoors

Sow individual seeds 2.5cm (1in) deep in 8cm (3in) pots of seed and potting compost. Keep the pots in a frost-free greenhouse. Ensure the compost remains moist at all times, but not saturated.

Plant out

Gradually accustom the young plants to outside conditions for 2-3 weeks before planting them out to their cropping positions from late May onwards, when the danger of frost has passed. Ensure supports are in place before planting out. Allow 20cm (8in) between plants in the row. Keep well watered.

Sow outdoors

Sow two seeds close together 5cm (2in) deep, at intervals of 20cm (8in). Runner beans require support and it is best to have this in place before you sow. Choose a sunny, shelterd spot and avoid cold or wet soil conditions.

Support

As runner beans climb they will need a frame or wigwam of canes where they can 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

When plants are in full flower, an occasional mid-day spraying with a fine hose encourages flower set and bean production. Pick the beans when they are young and tender. This encourages plants to remain productive longer. Runner beans freeze well: slice, then blanch them in boiling water for a minute or two, drain, allow to cool, then bag for freezing.