How to Grow, Care for and Harvest Scarlet Runner Beans

Scarlet runner beans are a wonderful addition to any garden, not only for their beautiful flowers but also for their delicious and nutritious beans. These climbing vines can grow up to 12 feet tall and produce large, bright red flowers that are a favorite of hummingbirds. The beans themselves are long and slender, with a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that is perfect for salads, soups, stews, and more. In this article, we will explore how to grow, care for, and harvest scarlet runner beans.

Growing, Caring for and Harvesting Scarlet Runner Beans

Choosing the right location

Scarlet runner beans need a sunny spot with well-draining soil. They prefer soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add sulfur or peat moss to lower the pH. You should also make sure that the spot you choose is protected from strong winds, as the vines can be quite delicate.

Preparing the soil

Before planting your scarlet runner beans, you need to prepare the soil. Start by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris from the area. Then, dig in some compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil’s texture and fertility. You can also add some bone meal or a balanced fertilizer to provide the plants with the nutrients they need.

Planting scarlet runner beans

Scarlet runner beans are usually planted in the spring, after the last frost date. You can start the seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date or plant them directly in the garden. Plant the seeds 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart, with rows spaced 2 to 3 feet apart. If you are planting the seeds directly in the garden, make sure the soil is warm and moist before sowing.

Providing support

Scarlet runner beans are climbing vines, so they need something to climb on. You can provide support in the form of trellises, poles, or strings. Make sure the support structure is sturdy and at least 8 feet tall, as the vines can grow quite tall. You can also plant scarlet runner beans near a fence or wall that they can climb on.

Watering scarlet runner beans

Scarlet runner beans need regular watering, especially during the hot, dry summer months. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Avoid getting the leaves wet, as this can promote fungal diseases. You can also mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing scarlet runner beans

Scarlet runner beans do not require a lot of fertilizer, but they do benefit from a small amount of nitrogen. You can side-dress the plants with a balanced fertilizer or add some compost or well-rotted manure around the base of the plants. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can result in lush growth at the expense of flowers and beans.

Controlling pests and diseases

Scarlet runner beans are generally quite resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be attacked by aphids, bean beetles, and spider mites. You can control these pests by spraying the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent fungal diseases, avoid getting the leaves wet and make sure there is good air circulation around the plants.

Harvesting scarlet runner beans

Scarlet runner beans can be harvested when the pods are young and tender, usually around 50 to 60 days after planting. The pods should be about 6 to 8 inches long and still green. If you wait too long to harvest, the pods will become tough and stringy. To harvest, simply snap the pods off the vine with your fingers or use a pair of scissors. Be gentle when harvesting to avoid damaging the plant or the remaining pods.

Saving scarlet runner bean seeds

If you want to save scarlet runner bean seeds for planting next year, leave some pods on the vine until they are fully mature and dry. The pods will turn brown and brittle, and the beans will rattle inside when shaken. Remove the pods from the vine and shell the beans by hand. Store the beans in a cool, dry place until you are ready to plant them.

Scarlet runner beans are a beautiful and delicious addition to any garden. By following the tips above, you can grow, care for, and harvest these plants with ease. Remember to choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil, provide support for the climbing vines, water and fertilize regularly, and harvest the pods when they are young and tender. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy fresh, healthy scarlet runner beans all season long.

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