Runner Bean - Butler This is a wonderfully attractive, red flowered variety producing purple seeded, long, smooth, stringless pods, growing to approx. 37cm long. It is resistant to virus, and can be harvested over a long period. Sow indoors for surest results, 2.5cm deep into individual pots of compost. Water well and place in a warm position. A temperature of 15-20°C is ideal. Keep moist. Seedlings usually appear in 7-14 days. Gradually accustom plants to outside conditions, before planting out 25cm apart, when frosts are over. Allow 45cm between rows. Provide poles or netting for plants to climb. Or sow outdoors for ease, where they are to crop, 5cm deep, directly into finely prepared soil which has already been watered. Delay sowing if soil is cold or waterlogged. Sow two seeds together, 30cm between each position. Allow 45cm between rows. Thin to leave stronger plant. Water well until plants are established. Provide poles or netting for plants to climb. Pick beans regularly to encourage further cropping.
