Runner Bean Wigwams
The long, twinning stems of runner beans makes them an exciting addition to a garden.
Runner Bean Wigwams for a Garden in a Term
Trained 2-3 metres up wigwams made of bamboo canes, twigs,
or poles, runner beans can provide height and even a little mystery by
hiding the bits of garden around them. Runner beans produce an abundance
of cheerful red flowers in mid-summer followed by delicious long pods.
Choose early runner bean varieties such as ‘Helda’, with green pods, or ‘Blauhilde, with blue pods that turn green when cooked, for an early harvest.
Sow runner beans indoors in April at a minimum temperature of 16 °C,
planting them out at the end of May, or sow directly in the garden under
the wigwams in late-April/early May, 5cm deep with 15cm between plants.
The first runner bean pods may be harvested in late June/July through
October.
Idea for Discussion
Try making the wigwams large enough to use as a play house for story telling.