Bean, Climbing Blue Lake

(Phaseolus vulgaris)

A superb variety that grows tall and produces round stringless pods of delicious beans. Well known for its flavour, it produces a heavy crop. Hardy annual.

When to plant: Spring and Summer.
How to grow: Sow spring and summer, all year round in warm northern areas, 25mm (1in) deep in dark damp soil-avoid watering for a day or two afterwards. Sow 10-15cm (4-6in) apart allowing 50-60cm between rows. Ensure the danger of frosts has passed and protect plants from wind. Plant in 1-3m (3-10ft) rows and remove weeds regularly. Keep the roots cool, a mulch of garden compost will help considerably. Water well in dry weather. Support if grown as pole beans, support with canes, netting or bean frames. Grown as ground beans they don't require any support but their size should be contained by regularly pinching out growing tips when shoots are 20-30cm (9-12in) long.
Harvest: Summer and Autumn.