Runner Bean Dwarf Hestia is a very popular runner bean variety because it stays very low and small. It produces a prolific amount of very well flavoured, almost stringless beans. Very well suited for growing in pots. small containers, square foot gardening and for small gardens or plots. Needs a regular feed and watering when grown in pots and containers. This plant needs support. Very decorative and attractive plant with little red - white flowers. Use in stews, stir-frys, soups, shortly cooked in salads, in Indonesian dishes like Sambal Goreng Boontjes, and as fresh vegetable. Height: 45 - 60 cm.
Indoor sowing: april
Outdoor sowing: half may
Germination: 7-14 days
Germination temp.: 18 - 22ºC
Sowing depth: 3 to 4 cm
Plant position: sunny
Sow indoors in april for an early crop. Sow in individual pots 3-4 cm deep and cover the seeds with sowing soil. Keep moist and warm. Transplant them outdoors in may (avoid frosts) to 45 cm apart. Protect the seedlings againts snales, slugs and other pests.
Sow outdoors from half may on (avoid frosts) on a sunny, sheltered spot in rich well drained soil. Cover the seeds with some fine sowing soil. Beans hate cold soil. Provide them with support. Give extra fertilizer when the plants starts to flower. Harvest the beans when they're about 50 cm long. Keep picking to encourage growth.
