Runner Beans 'White Lady'
White Lady produces tender, stringless runner beans and masses of white flowers throughout summer. A dependable and easy-to-grow favourite from our cottage garden.
Sowing
Sow April to May
Sow seeds indoors in spring into small pots of moist compost, planting each seed around 5cm deep. Keep somewhere warm while they germinate -- seedlings usually appear within 7–10 days.
Once sprouted, grow the young plants somewhere bright and slightly cooler until the risk of frost has passed. Before planting outside, let them slowly adjust to outdoor conditions for around a week.
Plant into rich, fertile soil in a sunny spot. Runner beans love to climb, so grow them up canes, netting, or a simple wigwam support.
Leave around 30cm between plants and shelter from very strong winds where possible.
You can also sow seeds directly outside once the soil has warmed in late spring.
Growing
Keep plants well watered, especially once flowers begin appearing, as dry plants can struggle to set beans.
Runner beans need support as they grow, so tie stems in gently if needed to help them climb. A layer of mulch around the base of the plants will help keep moisture in during warm weather.
You can feed every couple of weeks with a liquid feed through summer for healthy growth and plenty of beans.
Once plants reach the top of their supports, pinch out the growing tips to encourage more side shoots and make picking easier.
Harvest
Pick beans regularly while they are still young and tender to encourage the plants to keep producing through summer.
Frequent picking means more flowers, more beans, and a longer harvest season. Always cook runner beans before eating.
Approximate number of seeds per packet: 30