When to plant Runner Beans in the UK

Sow seeds around late April to early May in deep pots or root trainers, about 5–7 cm deep. Keep them in a warm spot and water just enough to keep the compost evenly moist, not wet.

Put supports in place from early May before you plant out. Use strong canes, netting or a wigwam, because runner beans climb fast and get awkward to fit around a finished support.

Harden plants off first, then plant out from mid-May once frost danger has passed and the soil feels warm. Space them 20–25 cm apart, set them against the supports, and water in thoroughly straight away.

From mid-May, water well whenever the top of the soil starts to dry out, especially once flowers open and pods begin to form. A mulch helps hold moisture and keeps the crop steadier in a dry spell. Once pods start to form, feed every couple of weeks with a high-potash liquid feed to keep the plants cropping.

Start picking from early August as soon as pods are long and well filled but still tender. Pick every few days through late October to keep the plants cropping, and keep checking closely because old pods slow new flower production.