Runner Bean problem

jockster211

Hi All

Have a row of runner beans, this is the first time I've tried them, in groups of 4 with 6' wigwam cane support. They're in a raised bed (new this year) the planting medium is soil/sharp sand/compost (not manured). I've only watered when we've had particularly dry weather.

They're looking great, healthy, already had to nip out the growing tips on some as they're at the top of the canes, plenty of lovely scarlet flowers, etc.

Problem is I'm starting to see lots of flowers just drop off. No sign of any pests or bird attack. They're just dropping off:eek:.

Anyone any ideas. I'd be very grateful.

Jockster

Vibrant

Hi,
This is normal, the flowers drop off, then the beans form where the flowers were. If you look carefully, you may already see the odd tiny bean.
Give them plenty of water, if on a meter (like me), washing up and bath water is fine, providing you don't use too many soaps/shampoos etc.

MRSMCAWBER

Hi there

If your flowers are dropping off and not leaving the start of tiny beans behind then they aren't "setting" -to help, spray the flowers with a fine mist from a hosepipe every evening it helps the flowers to set so that beans will form...
hope that helps

jockster211

Thanks both.

I'm not sure there are any signs of beans were the flowers are falling off, but will sit tight & keep checking.

Any reasons why they don't 'set'? Will try fine misting them in the evenings. Is this something I should be doing anyway (next year) from the start?

Thanks once again

Jockster

Lotus-eater

Terry Walton on the R2 allotments thing, was talking about this the other day. I'm pretty sure he said to add hydrated lime mixed with water and water that on the base of the plants. He said that helps.