Runner Bean - Crusader
This is a reliable heirloom favourite reliably producing a high yield of long pods of superb flavour which snap readily when young and tender. The beans must be picked regularly for optimum yields.
Sow seeds from mid-April indoors for transplanting or late April to late June outdoors. Sow seeds in 7.5cm pots at 18-20C, 4cm deep. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a polythene bag until after germination which takes 7-10 days. Seeds can also be sown direct outdoors once the soil has warmed, 15cm apart, 5cm deep and in rows 45cm apart. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 7-10 days before planting out after all risk of frost, against support such as canes or netting. For even earlier crops, this variety can be pinched out and grown as a low bush bean. Hoe regularly and keep plants well-watered. Mulch during dry periods.