Runner Bean Firestorm

NEW TO KINGS 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. 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.,WHEN TO SOW April to May WHERE TO SOW Early sowings in individual pots in a glasshouse or cold frame. Form early May sow 2 seeds 5cm (2"") deep and 20cm (8"") apart with 60cm (24"") between rows outside. WHAT TO DO NEXT Glasshouse seedlings should be gradually hardened off before planting outside in late May to the spacings above with a support cane as each planting station. Reduce outside sowings to single plants. Circular plantings can be made with canes joined at the centre to form a wigwam. For optimum crops, place canes 45cm (18"") apart with 3 plants per cane. 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.