Scarlet runner beans (Phaseolus coccineus) are one of the most versatile, visually stunning, and rewarding plants you can grow in your home garden. Known for their vibrant red flowers, rapid vining growth, and delicious edible pods, these heirloom beans have long been a favorite in cottage gardens, edible landscapes, and home vegetable patches. Not only do they offer fresh, tender pods in the summer, but they also attract hummingbirds and beneficial pollinators.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about growing Scarlet runner beans — from selecting the perfect site to harvesting and using their flavorful pods.
Why Grow Scarlet Runner Beans?
Scarlet runner beans are prized for their dual purpose: ornamental beauty and culinary value. Their brilliant scarlet-red blossoms add a pop of color to trellises, fences, and pergolas, while their pods can be eaten fresh, cooked, or dried for winter storage. Native to Central America, these beans are grown around the world and are especially popular in home gardens for their reliability and versatility.
Benefits include:
- Attracting pollinators: Hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees love the nectar-rich flowers.
- High yields: Vigorous vines produce abundant pods throughout summer.
- Edible at every stage: Eat young pods whole, shell mature beans, or dry for later use.
- Easy to grow: Low-maintenance and adaptable to many climates.
Selecting the Right Planting Location
To thrive and produce tender pods, Scarlet runner beans require the right environment:
- Sunlight: Choose a site that receives at least 6-8 hours of full sun daily.
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal.
- Support: These are climbing vines, often reaching 8-12 feet, so plant near a trellis, fence, or pole structure.
Avoid areas prone to waterlogging or strong winds, as wet soil and heavy gusts can damage the vines and roots.
When and How to Plant Scarlet Runner Beans
Timing
Scarlet runner beans are frost-sensitive and should be planted after the last frost date in spring when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F (16°C).
Planting from Seed
Direct seeding is recommended, as these beans don’t transplant well.
- Prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of 8-10 inches and mixing in compost or aged manure.
- Soak seeds overnight to speed up germination.
- Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
If planting multiple rows, space them 18-24 inches apart to allow airflow and easy harvesting.
Supporting Your Scarlet Runner Beans
Since these vines can grow impressively tall, providing support is essential.
Trellis Ideas:
- Sturdy trellis panels or fencing
- Teepee-style poles
- A-frame supports
- Pergolas or arbors
Ensure your structure is at least 6-8 feet tall and securely anchored. As the vines grow, gently guide them toward the supports or loosely tie them with garden twine.
Watering and Mulching
Watering
Scarlet runner beans prefer evenly moist soil, especially during flowering and pod development.
- Provide 1 inch of water per week.
- Avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk.
Mulching
Add a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch (like straw or shredded leaves) around plants to:
- Retain soil moisture
- Suppress weeds
- Keep soil temperatures stable
Fertilizing Scarlet Runner Beans
Beans are light feeders but benefit from fertile soil, especially early in the growing season.
- Before planting: Work compost or a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer into the soil.
- After flowering: Apply a side dressing of compost or a low-nitrogen fertilizer to support pod production.
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as these encourage lush foliage at the expense of flowers and beans.
Pruning and Care Tips
While Scarlet runner beans generally require minimal pruning, you can:
- Pinch off the vine tips when they reach the top of your support to encourage side shoots.
- Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to improve air circulation.
- Regularly check for pests and signs of disease.
Common Pests and Diseases
Pests:
- Aphids
- Japanese beetles
- Spider mites
Control infestations with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or by spraying plants with a strong stream of water to dislodge pests.
Diseases:
- Powdery mildew
- Rust
- Bean mosaic virus
Prevent issues by:
- Ensuring good air circulation
- Watering at the soil level
- Avoiding overcrowding
Remove infected leaves and practice crop rotation each year.
Harvesting Scarlet Runner Beans
Scarlet runner beans produce both edible pods and seeds. You can harvest at several stages:
For Fresh Pods:
- Pick when the pods are 4-6 inches long and still tender.
- Test by snapping a pod in half; it should break cleanly and easily.
Harvesting regularly encourages continuous production.
For Shelling Beans:
- Allow pods to mature until the seeds inside are plump.
- Shell and use fresh or store for drying.
For Dry Beans:
- Let pods dry on the vine.
- Once fully dry, harvest and shell.
- Store dry beans in airtight containers in a cool, dark place.
Storing and Using Scarlet Runner Beans
- Fresh pods: Refrigerate in a breathable bag for up to a week.
- Shelling beans: Use within a few days of harvest.
- Dry beans: Keep in a dry, airtight container for several months.
Culinary Uses:
- Young pods: Steam, sauté, or stir-fry.
- Shelling beans: Use in soups, stews, or as a side dish.
- Dry beans: Great for hearty dishes, chili, or casseroles.
The beans have a rich, nutty flavor and smooth texture, making them a favorite in many kitchens.
Saving Seeds for Next Season
Scarlet runner beans are easy to save for future planting:
- Let several pods fully dry on the vine.
- Remove seeds from dry pods.
- Store in a paper envelope in a cool, dark, and dry location.
Properly stored, Scarlet runner bean seeds remain viable for 2-3 years.
Final Thoughts
Growing Scarlet runner beans is a rewarding endeavor for gardeners of all levels. Their combination of ornamental beauty and practical harvest makes them a perfect addition to any backyard garden, trellis, or fence line. With minimal care, you’ll be rewarded with a summer-long display of vivid scarlet flowers, fresh tender pods, and, if you choose, dry beans for winter dishes.
So whether you’re cultivating a decorative cottage garden or aiming for fresh ingredients for your kitchen, Scarlet runner beans are an easy and reliable crop to try this season.
Leave A Comment