French beans - Phaseolus vulgaris
Varieties
Dwarf varieties crop earlier and over a shorter period, although climbing varieties give higher yields for a given space.
Sowing
Sow in deep trays or individual pots at a temperature of about 15°C, approximately four weeks before planting.
Planting
Plant out in the greenhouse border as soon as conditions are sufficiently frost-free — usually in late spring in an unheated house — up until mid-summer. Space climbing varieties 30cm apart, and dwarf varieties 20cm each way. The border should contain plenty of organic matter, but need not be very rich.
Growing
Grow tall varieties up canes or strings. Ensure that plants are kept moist and that ventilation and light are good.
Harvesting
Dwarf varieties produce the earliest crops from early to mid-summer; or from early to mid-autumn for early summer-sown crops. Climbing varieties take longer to crop but have a longer harvesting time. Pick regularly.
Pests, diseases,and disorders
Beans, when grown in a greenhouse, are particularly prone to red spider mite.
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