Bean Sunshine | Climbing French

Climbing French beans need a warm, sunny position and fertile, moisture-retentive soil. Sow seeds indoors from mid-spring or directly outside once the risk of frost has passed.

When planting out, space plants around 15-20cm (6-8in) apart and provide strong supports such as hazel wigwams, bamboo canes, or trellis for the vines to climb. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells, and mulch around plants to retain moisture.

Protect young seedlings from slugs and snails, which can quickly damage tender growth. Feed regularly with a high-potash fertiliser to encourage flowering and pod production.

Harvest beans frequently while they are young and tender, as allowing pods to mature will reduce further yields. Removing any older pods will encourage continuous cropping throughout the summer.