Gorgeous peach blossoms top the vigorous 2m (6.5') vines of Sunset runner bean. Worth growing for the eye-catching blooms alone, it is equally rewarding to grow for its prolific harvest of beans that can be used as fresh green snap or dried shell beans that are lavender with black speckles. Enjoy the dried beans all winter in savory soups and stews. The plentiful flowers are also edible and have a fresh and mild bean taste perfect for garnishes and salads.
Matures in 70 days
West Coast Seeds Sunset Bean Seeds, Per Package
Starting
Seeds can be started indoors, or sowed directly. Set seeds 7-10cm (3-4″) apart and 3.5cm (1½”) deep at the base of a support. Plants will climb by twining around almost anything. Try rough poles, lumber, re-bar, or build a strong trellis 2-2.5m (6-8′) tall. Seeds will sprout in 8-16 days, depending on soil conditions.
Timing
Direct sow from late spring to early summer. Try to plant during a warm, dry spell. Soil must be warm – if it is not warm enough, seeds will rot, especially our untreated seeds. Optimal soil temperature: 21-32°C (70-90°F).
Harvest
Beans can be picked when plump-looking. You may dry beans to preserve them, or cook them soon after harvesting. You must ensure that you cook these beans thoroughly; raw runner beans contain lectin, a toxin that is removed by the cooking process.
