French Beans Growing Guide
French beans are a varied and versatile legume also known as haricots verts. They are a thinner and shorter type of green bean, with their earthier flavour making them a scrumptious side for any dish.
Introduction
French beans, also known as haricots verts, are a thin and tender type of green bean with an earthy flavour. They’re a versatile crop, suitable for both dwarf and climbing varieties, and are great for beginners. With the right conditions and tools, you can enjoy a successful harvest.
When to plant French beans
Sow seeds indoors in March, then transplant outside once the risk of frost has passed, usually between late May and June. This ensures a stronger crop and better-tasting beans.
How to sow, plant, and grow French beans
Sowing French beans
Decide whether you’re growing dwarf or climbing varieties. As a tender crop, sow seeds indoors in small pots. Place one seed in 5cm of soil on a sunny windowsill or in a propagator. Water regularly. Outdoor sowing should be done under cover until seedlings are established.
Planting French beans
Move plants outdoors once the soil warms. Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure for best growth.
Dwarf French beans
Plant in blocks with 15cm spacing to allow proper growth.
Climbing French beans
Sow in a wigwam or double row, and provide bamboo cane supports before sowing. Tie plants to the supports as they grow.
Growing French beans
Water regularly and apply a mulch of well-rotted manure or mushroom compost to retain soil moisture.
Common problems French beans face
- Insect pests: Treat with soap or insect repellent, or use companion planting for natural pest control.
- Diseases: Stem anthracnose and bean rust thrive in wet conditions. Provide shelter and remove affected plants.
- Seedlings failing to emerge: Caused by cold soil. Cover soil with a cloth to warm it.
When and how to harvest French beans
Harvest between May and October, approximately eight weeks after planting. Pods should be around 10cm and slightly opaque, before beans inside are visible. Use scissors to snip the pods, and harvest regularly to encourage more growth.
Start growing French beans in a polytunnel
French beans need sunlight and shelter to thrive. Growing them in a polytunnel is ideal. We offer a range of polytunnel sizes to suit your garden. Contact us at info@premierpolytunnels.co.uk for advice. Explore our blogs for more crop growing tips and ideas.
