French beans are ideal for the smaller plot or home garden due to their size and yield. When they mature their
thick foliage acts as an excellent weed suppressor. French beans will crop even in drought conditions, but a
heavier crop will result with regular watering. There are both dwarf and climbing varieties available, the
dwarf growing to 20 cms and the climber to 1.8 metres.
These plants prefer a sunny sheltered spot and will grown in almost any soil condition, but prefer one that
is not to heavy. A layer of manure from a previous season would be ideal. The soil ph level should be between
7.0-8.0.
Sowing can begin in early spring when the risk of frost has past. They will not germinate unless the soil
temperature is above 16 degrees C, any lower they will soon rot in the ground. The seeds have a 75% success
rate so sowing in pairs is advisable, keeping the strongest when they germinate. Sow 5cm deep 30cms apart in double
rows. Germination should take place within 10 days and 3 weeks after sowing.
When the plants start to mature, hoe frequently and water in dry conditions. The beans will require some support when
they start to crop, you can use pea sticks or short bamboo's. Beware of slugs during this period.
When you start harvesting, check plants daily as the pods grow very quickly. When removing pods from the plants they can easily
become damaged if ripped from the plant, so I normally use a scissors.
