Scarlet Runner Bean Seeds - Phaseolus coccineus

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

USDA Zones 3-11 - Grows as a vigorous warm-season annual in most zones. In frost-free or mild-winter areas (Zones 8-11), its tuberous roots may overwinter if mulched, allowing it to grow as a short-lived perennial.

Best performance in Zones 4-8 where long, moderately warm summers provide ideal growing conditions for lush vines, heavy flowering, and maximum bean production through early fall.

Northern Zones (3-5) - Direct sow seeds outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed to at least 65F. It's crucial to provide a sturdy trellis at planting time to support the fast-growing vines in areas with shorter summers.

Hot Climate Zones (9-11) - Plant in early spring for a summer harvest, or in late summer for a fall crop. Providing afternoon shade can help reduce stress and prevent flower drop during periods of extreme heat. Mulch roots heavily to potentially overwinter the plant.

Soil Temperature - Requires warm soil of at least 60-65F for germination. The optimal soil temperature of 70-80F ensures rapid sprouting and establishment. Avoid planting in cool, wet soil, which can cause seeds to rot.

Growing Season - Requires 70-90 frost-free days for a full harvest of dry beans. Snap beans can be harvested earlier, around 60-70 days. Its rapid growth makes it suitable for all zones with a warm growing season.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

Planting Scarlet Runner Bean Seeds
Scarlet Runner Beans are incredibly rewarding, providing both beauty and food from a single plant. Follow these instructions for a successful and stunning harvest.

When to Plant
These beans love warmth. Do not plant too early.

Direct Sow: Plant seeds directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has thoroughly warmed to at least 65F. This is typically 1-2 weeks after your last average frost date.

Where to Plant
Sunlight: Choose a location that receives full sun (6-8 hours per day).

Support is Essential: Scarlet Runner Beans are powerful climbers that can grow over 10 feet tall. You must provide a strong trellis, fence, teepee, or other sturdy support for them to climb. Install the support structure before or at the time of planting to avoid disturbing the roots later.

Soil: They thrive in rich, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Work a few inches of compost into the soil before planting to provide nutrients and improve drainage. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal.

How to Plant
Prepare Seeds (Optional): To give them a head start, you can soak the seeds in water overnight before planting to soften the seed coat and speed up germination.

Sowing: Plant seeds 1 inch deep.

Spacing: Space seeds 4-6 inches apart along the base of your trellis or support structure.

Watering: Water the area well after planting, and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until seedlings emerge, which typically takes 8-14 days.

Care & Maintenance
Watering: Water deeply and consistently, especially during dry periods and when the plants are flowering and producing pods. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week. Water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry.

Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch (like straw or shredded leaves) around the base of the plants once they are established. This helps retain soil moisture, keep roots cool, and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing: Beans are light feeders and create their own nitrogen. Amending the soil with compost at the beginning of the season is usually sufficient. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which will encourage lots of leaves but fewer flowers and beans.

How to Harvest
You can harvest Scarlet Runner Beans at two different stages for two different uses.

For Snap Beans: Harvest the pods when they are young, tender, and slender, about 6-8 inches long, before the seeds inside begin to swell. Gently snap them off the vine. Harvest every 2-3 days to encourage the plant to produce more.

For Dry Beans: For shelling, leave the pods on the vine until they become lumpy, change color, and feel dry and brittle to the touch. The beautiful, large beans inside can then be shelled and stored in a cool, dry place for winter use in soups, chilis, and stews.