Runner Bean Firestorm

Runner Bean seeds "Firestorm" is a truly outstanding variety of Runner Bean and most importantly, easy to grow! The plant produces attractive scarlet coloured flowers which go on to produce stringless, slightly thicker, sweeter and tender beans than other varieties. This particular variety sets well even in poor weather. Of all the different types of pulses, Runner Beans are probably the most popular for home growing. Thinking ahead will achieve the best crops, do not wait until sowing time though as the most important time is Autumn. It is then that the ground should be prepared by choosing the site and digging well and incorporating a good quality manure. WHEN TO SOW April to June WHERE TO SOW Early sowings can be made underglass at a temperature of 16°C, sow 3 seeds per 8cm (3in) pot filled with seed sowing compost. Outside sowings can be made from May onwards into the growing site 5cm (2in) deep. Sow 2-3 seeds every 20-30cm(8-12in) apart with rows spaced 60cm (24in) apart. WHAT TO DO NEXT Seedlings sown underglass should be gradually hardened off before planting outside in late May to the above spacing, once all risk of frost has past. Place a support cane at each planting station. Alternatively circular plantings can be made with canes joined at the centre to form a wigwam. For optimum crop, place canes 30-45cm (12-18") apart with 3 beans planted per cane.Water regularly during dry weather. MATURITY July to September HANDY TIP Runner Beans are hungry plants; the ground should be well prepared and manured in the previous Autumn. NUTRITIONAL VALUES Runner Beans are a good source of vitamin C, folic acid and iron.