Unwins French Bean (Climbing) Isabel

Sowing Time

Harvest Time

Plant Spacing

60cm (24in)

20cm (8in)

Sowing 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
• 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 and 60cm (24in) between rows

Sowing Outdoors

• Sow seeds direct into harvest position 20cm (8in) apart and 5cm (2in) deep
• Keep soil moist at all times
• French bean seeds are sensitive to cold, wet soils so do not sow seed outdoors before May

Support

• As these French beans climb, they will need a support
• A frame of canes and strong netting is ideal, or the beas can be grown in wigwams of sticks or canes, where they 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

• Climbing beans require plenty of water to produce a good crop
• Water generously in dry spells
• When plants are full in flower, an occasional midday spraying with a fine hose encourages flower and bean production
• Climbing French beans are generously disease and trouble free

Harvest

• Pick the beans when they are young and tender
• This encourages plants to remain productive for longer

Freezing

• Climbing French beans freeze well
• Simply slice then blanch them in boiling water for a minute or two, drain, allow to cool then bag them for the freezer

Growing Tips

• Do not be too eager to plant outdoors
• French beans thrive in sunny position which is not exposed to cold winds

For any questions or advice, please contact our technical advice line on 01480 443789 (Mon-Fri 10am-4pm) or email customerservice@westlandhorticulture.com