Heirloom Painted Lady was first written about in the 1880’s as an established variety and it has remained popular ever since – it has a prolific habit, producing very tender pods with an outstanding flavour and is a personal favourite. It has beautiful red and white bi-colour flowers. I have heard this referred to as the York and Lancaster Bean. Whether that is true or not Painted Lady deserves a place in your garden. It is listed by the RHS as a pollinators plant and the bees love it.
Price for 24 seeds
SOW: in late spring after frost danger has passed. We like to start runners in pots (seed depth 2.5-5cm) & plant out when they show signs of wanting to climb after hardening off. You can plant them in situ but put your canes in place first! They like rich soil so if you are able to dig in organic matter early in the spring the beans will appreciate the extra boost.
GROW: runners like a cane each about 20cm apart, you may need to encourage them to twine but they soon get the hang of it. You can pinch out the first growing tip when 25cm high to encourage more bushy growth. They are insect pollinated – the insects prefer shelter from wind. Depending on the growing conditions Painted cropping will start in about 12-14 weeks. They like to be watered at the base in dry weather.
ENJOY: the flowers are loved by pollinators, and you will love the beans! We like to pick our beans when they are young. Fresh beans to the plate are a flavour to savour – I have been known to eat a bowl full with sprinkle of grated cheese on top! All Runner Beans freeze very well – slice (blanche if you can) and bag into meal sized amounts.
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