Description
Firestorm runner bean produces an abundance of crimson red flowers followed by a smooth and tender bean. It is self-pollinating, easy to grow and sets well (even in poor weather and hot temperatures) and was awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit in 2013.
| When to Sow | Sow successionally April to June. |
| Where to Sow | Sow indoors in compost filled pots 4cm (1.5in) deep. Place in a warm sunny position and water regularly until they germinate. |
| Sow direct outdoors, placing 2 seeds at the base of each support (at least 23cm (9in) apart), 4 cm ( 1.5in) deep. | |
| It is best to construct a support prior to sowing or planting beans. They will climb up sticks, canes, heavy string, wire or mesh nylon net. The support could be in the form of a wigwam of canes or mesh net attached to 2 horizontal posts approx. 2.5m in height. | |
| Runner beans prefer moist, fertile soil in a sunny position, sheltered from strong winds. Prepare the seed bed or pot/container by digging over and adding plenty of organic material to help retain moisture. | |
| What to do Next | Transplant seeds sown indoors to a final growing position once the risk of frost has passed (end of May). Place a seedling at the base of each support (at least 23cm (9in) apart) and water well. |
| For seeds sown direct, remove the weakest seedling at each support station. | |
| As the seedlings grow encourage them to grow up the support. | |
| Keep weed free and water well, especially in dry weather when the flowers first appear to encourage the beans to develop. | |
| Harvest | July to October |
| Handy Tips | Prior to sowing place seeds on damp paper towelling until they swell as this will initiate germination. |
| Try sowing beans in compost filled toilet roll cardboard inners, this allows the soil to be free draining and also allows gives the roots plenty of room to grow. When the seedlings are ready to plant out the cardboard rolls they can be placed directly into the seed bed minimising root disturbance. | |
| Once the beans have reached the top of the support, remove the growing tip. This will encourage the plant to focus more of its energy on growing beans. | |
| Pick beans often and do not allow them to get too large. This will encourage a longer and heavier crop and prevent the beans becoming stringy. | |
| Companion Planting | Good Companions: Rosemary, peas, cucumbers, carrots, chives, radishes, lettuce, nasturtiums. |
| Bad Companions: Onion or fennel. | |
| Nutritional Information | Good source of vitamin C, folic acid and iron. |
| Serving Suggestion | Runner beans can be served shredded, sliced or shelled. Add shelled beans whole or halved to salads, sautéed or steam with other vegetables or chop and cook in curry, risottos, omelettes and casseroles. They are also a good vegetable to freeze after blanching. |
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