Do scarlet runner beans like sun or shade?

Scarlet runner beans thrive in full sun. They absolutely love basking in the warm rays of sunlight for most of the day. So, if you’re planning to grow these vibrant and versatile beans in your garden, make sure to find a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight.

When it comes to soil, scarlet runner beans appreciate rich and well-draining soil. It’s essential to prepare the soil before planting by incorporating plenty of organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. This will not only provide essential nutrients but also improve the soil structure, allowing for better water retention and aeration.

I remember the first time I planted scarlet runner beans in my garden. I chose a sunny spot near a fence, as these beans love to climb and use support to grow tall. The soil in that area was quite sandy, so I added generous amounts of compost and mixed it well to create a nutrient-rich bed for my beans.

In terms of moisture, scarlet runner beans prefer consistent and average moisture levels. They don’t like to be waterlogged but also don’t appreciate being too dry. It’s crucial to keep the soil evenly moist throughout the growing season. Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

During hot and dry spells, I made sure to water my scarlet runner beans deeply and regularly. I observed that they responded well to a thorough watering once or twice a week, allowing the water to penetrate the soil deeply rather than frequent shallow watering.

To further enhance the growth and productivity of scarlet runner beans, I occasionally fed them with a balanced organic fertilizer. This helped provide the necessary nutrients for healthy foliage growth and abundant bean production.

It’s important to mention that scarlet runner beans are quite vigorous climbers, and they require sturdy support. I constructed a trellis using bamboo poles and twine, ensuring it was tall enough to accommodate the beans’ growth. As the beans started to climb, I gently guided their tendrils around the trellis, helping them find their way.

Scarlet runner beans thrive in full sun, rich soil with plenty of organic matter, and average moisture. By providing these ideal growing conditions, you can expect a bountiful harvest of vibrant and delicious beans. Happy gardening!

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Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.