DO A RUNNER

FRENCH and runner beans are halfhardy and best sown late in the season. Both have large seeds that are quick to germinate. Sow them in drills about 4cm deep, in a warm, moist, friable seedbed. Dwarf French beans are best sown in rows or beds. Place seeds roughly 3cm deep, 15cm apart and with 15cm to 20cm between rows. Sow climbing French or runner beans at similar depths and spacing, in single or double rows, or at the bases of their supports.