Vegetables
Runner Bean 'Moonlight'
Phaseolus coccineus
Pretty enough to grow for its flowers alone, Moonlight is an outstanding British bred variety producing huge crops of tender, stringless beans. It's self-pollinating allowing the flowers to set earlier and in poor weather, as beneficial insects aren't required. Add interest to flower borders or grow in large containers.
- Position
- Full Sun
- Height
- 2m
- Spread
- 50cm
Growing calendar
Sowing & growing
Sow under glass Apr-May, 5cm deep in pots of moist seed compost. Germinates at temperatures 18-20°C. Once germinated, grow seedlings on in cool temperatures. Once the risk of frost has passed, acclimatise the young plants, before planting them in rich, fertile soil with support for climbing. Sow directly outside from May-Jul, 5cm deep, 30cm apart.
Aftercare
When runner beans reach the top of the support, pinch out the top. This will encourage side shoots. Pick continuously to prolong cropping.
Gallery
Ref. SER026