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Runner Bean 'Scarlet'
Runner Bean 'Scarlet'
Seed Packet

Runner Bean 'Scarlet'

Phaseolus coccineus
Originally from South America, this runner bean was grown by Native Americans in New England. In 1605 Champlain remarked, "With this corn, they put in each hill three or four Brazilian beans of different colors. When they grow up, they interlace with the corn, which reaches to the height of five to six feet; and they keep the ground very free of weeds." Gardeners still grow this heirloom variety with brilliant red trusses of bloom, edible flowers, and beans. Pick beans often and while young for top quality and enjoy the classic 'beany' flavor, or allow them to mature to the shelling beans stage.
SKU #S349
$3.25
Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
12
Lifecycle
Annual
Annual Hardiness
Tender Annual
Mature Size
6-8' h x 1' w
Sun
Full sun
Soil
Rich, moist, well-drained
Season
Summer
Color
Bright red flowers
Features
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
Attracts Hummingbirds
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
1"
Sprout Time:
5-10 days
Seed To Bloom:
45-55 days to harvest
Starting Indoors:
Not recommended.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow a couple of weeks after last frost into warm soil.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Runner beans are increasingly popular for their ornamental flowers that attract hummingbirds to our gardens. However, their roots in our horticultural heritage stretch back to colonial times, for the vigorous and productive vines offer fresh and dried beans. They twine around sturdy teepees, and summer brings vibrant flower tresses ornamenting their rich green foliage. Grow as focal points in cottage and vegetable gardens, and pick the young beans often to keep them in maximum bloom. Do not grow near fennel, as it will inhibit bean plant growth.
Final Spacing:
1'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
Even moisture, 1" a week or more during hot or dry spells.
Soil pH:
Slightly acidic , pH 6.5-6.8
Fertilizer:
Mix in 1-2" inches of compost before planting.
Diseases & Pests:
Handpick any bean beetles and their yellow eggs on the leaf backs and use organic insecticides if more control is needed. Space plants well apart for increased air circulation to discourage disease. Avoid working around plants when the leaves are wet to avoid the spread of any fungal disease.