French Bean Climbing Seeds 'Monte Cristo' - 50 Seeds
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This guide is for home gardeners in the UK looking for a reliable and high-yielding climbing French bean variety. The 'Monte Cristo' bean offers a key benefit of heavy crops of long, tender green pods with excellent flavor and texture, even in challenging weather conditions. A potential caveat is its need for climbing support, requiring vertical space in the garden. This variety is known for its vigorous growth, consistent pod setting, and long harvesting season, making it a dependable choice for abundant harvests.
All features
| Model Part Number | 10303124 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Marshalls Garden |
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FAQs
What is the best time to sow French Bean 'Monte Cristo' seeds?
Sow seeds outdoors from April to May. You can also start them indoors a few weeks earlier, transplanting them once the risk of frost has passed.
How tall do these climbing beans grow?
The 'Monte Cristo' variety is a vigorous climber and typically grows to about 180 cm (approximately 6 feet) in height, requiring sturdy support.
Can I grow these beans in pots or containers?
Yes, you can grow them in containers, but ensure the container is deep enough and a substantial support structure is added for the plants to climb.
How often should I water climbing French beans?
Water consistently, keeping the soil moist but not saturated. Water more frequently during hot, dry weather and when pods are forming.
What makes this variety reliable in poor weather?
The 'Monte Cristo' variety has been bred for its resilience, meaning it is more likely to set pods and produce a good yield even when conditions are wet or unsettled, which is common in the UK.
When can I expect to harvest the beans?
Harvesting typically begins in June and continues through September, providing a long cropping season.
How many seeds are in a pack?
A pack of French Bean Climbing Seeds 'Monte Cristo' contains approximately 50 seeds.
Troubleshooting
Seeds fail to germinate
Ensure seeds are sown at the correct depth (5cm) and soil is moist but not waterlogged. Check for sufficient warmth and avoid sowing too early in cold soil.
Plants are not producing pods
Ensure adequate sunlight, consistent watering, and sufficient nutrients. Pollination issues can occur in very wet or windy conditions; encourage beneficial insects if possible.
Yellowing leaves
This could indicate a lack of nitrogen or overwatering. Check soil drainage and consider a balanced liquid feed if soil is depleted.
Pests like blackfly or aphids are present
Encourage natural predators like ladybirds. You can also use a strong jet of water to dislodge them or apply an organic insecticidal soap.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High yield potential
- Excellent flavor and texture of pods
- Reliable performance in wet or poor weather
- Vigorous climbing growth utilizes vertical space
- Long harvesting season for extended enjoyment
- Suitable for a wide range of UK growing conditions
Cons
- Requires support structures for climbing
- Needs adequate sunlight and consistent watering
- Sowing period is specific (April-May)
- Approximately 50 seeds per pack may limit large-scale planting
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing:
- Sow seeds outdoors from April to May, or indoors a few weeks earlier for a head start.
- Plant seeds at a depth of approximately 5 cm.
- Ensure a spacing of about 15-20 cm between plants, depending on the support system.
Support:
- As these are climbing beans, they require support. Install poles, netting, or a trellis before sowing or when seedlings are small.
- The plants can grow up to 180 cm tall, so ensure your support structure is sturdy and sufficient.
Growing Conditions:
- Sunlight: Choose a sunny, sheltered spot in your garden.
- Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil enriched with compost.
- Watering: Water consistently, especially during dry spells, to encourage good pod development.
- Hardiness: Hardy to H4, meaning it can tolerate moderate frost but should be protected from severe cold.
Care:
- Keep the soil moist and free from weeds.
- Harvest pods regularly to encourage further production.
- Protect young seedlings from slugs and snails.
Compatibility:
- Suitable for growing in containers if a tall, sturdy support is provided.
- Can be grown alongside many common vegetables, but avoid planting near onions or garlic.