The early insect damage on my runner bean leaves (above) has not damaged the crop of beans. Cool evenings and warm sunny days with adequate rain, has helped produce a bumper crop of tender beans.

Tips For Runner Bean Next Year

• Add plenty of rotted compost this winter to increase the moisture holding ability of your soil.
• Grow in a sunny spot sheltered from strong winds.
• Stake to at least 6′ high in a wigwam or A frame shape. I used old canes and they snapped in the wind so beware false economy.
• Plant more than one variety (I also planted heritage Painted Lady for the bi-coloured flowers).
• Runners need pollination by insects and this is helped when the air is a bit damp. If the weather is very dry, spray your plants with plain water.
• For organic veg I put up with some leaf damage rather than use chemicals

For more tips on Growing Scarlet Emperor

Saving Bean Seeds

• When the beans start to fill out the pod and go starchy the seed is ready for saving for next years crop.
• Let the pod dry out then keep the seed cool and dry for next year.
• Save enough to give some seed to neighbors.
• A good big one will beat a good small one so select prime seeds to save.
• Even runts will probably grow OK but damage seed should not be kept.