Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing Indoors:
- Sow seeds individually in clean pots or modules filled with compost.
- Plant each seed approximately 5 cm deep.
- Water thoroughly.
- Place pots on a warm windowsill or in a propagator, maintaining a minimum temperature of 12°C.
Growing On / Planting Out:
- Once seedlings have emerged and the risk of frost has passed (typically May), slowly acclimatize them to outdoor conditions.
- Plant them out 15 to 20 cm apart in a location with full sun.
- Ensure the soil is well-prepared with added organic matter.
- If planting in containers, choose pots at least 30 cm in diameter.
Sowing Outdoors:
- Sow seeds directly into the soil at their final growing location.
- Plant seeds 5 cm deep and 15 to 20 cm apart.
- Allow approximately 30 cm between rows.
- Ensure the location receives full sun.
General Care:
- Watering: Keep the soil moist at all times. This is crucial for good pod development.
- Soil: Prefers soil with added organic matter.
- Harvesting (Pods): Young, tender pods can be picked and steamed whole. Harvest when pods are smooth and plump.
- Harvesting (Beans): For drying, leave pods on the plant until fully mature and dry, before the first frost. Do not harvest pods after rain.
- Storage: Remove beans from pods, dry them completely in a warm place until hard. Store in an airtight container. They are also suitable for freezing after cooking.