Runner Bean : White Apollo

Vegetable

• Crops in : Harvest July to October

Description

British breeding at its best. This decorative white-flowered variety is ignored by the birds so its blossoms are left intact and maximum crops can be enjoyed! Runner Bean White Apollo produces long, straight, smooth, stringless pods up to 37cm (15 inches) long produced over a long period. Prefers well drained, moist, rich conditions.

Sowing Instructions

Sow seeds mid April indoors for transplanting.Sow seeds 5cm (2 inches) deep in 7.5cm (3 inch) pots or trays of good free draining, seed compost. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a polythene bag and place at 18-20C (64-68F) until after germination which takes 7 to 10 days.

Sow seeds May to early July direct outdoors once the soil has warmed. Sow 15cm (6 inches) apart, 5cm (2 inches) deep and in rows 45cm (18 inches) apart.

Growing Instructions

Gradually acclimatise indoor grown plants to outdoor conditions for a few days before planting out after all risk of frost, against canes or netting.

Aftercare

Hoe regularly and keep well watered. Mulch during dry periods. Pick beans regularly when young and stringless.

Kitchen Notes

Use up the last of the season's crop by making spicy, pickled runner beans!