Thompson & Morgan Climbing Bean - Cobra
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The Thompson & Morgan Climbing Bean - Cobra is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners who want a high-yielding, flavorful crop of stringless green beans. This RHS Award of Garden Merit recipient offers a perfect balance of ornamental beauty with its mauve-purple flowers and culinary versatility, making it ideal for home vegetable patches or garden borders. While it provides an abundant harvest throughout the summer, gardeners should note that it requires proactive support structures and a sheltered, sunny location to reach its full potential.
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| Brand | Thompson & Morgan |
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FAQs
When is the best time to sow Cobra bean seeds?
You can sow seeds from April to July for a staggered harvest throughout the summer and autumn.
Do I need to stake these beans?
Yes, as a climbing variety, Cobra beans require support such as a cane wigwam, strings, or netting to grow properly.
Are these beans really stringless?
Yes, this variety is specifically bred to produce smooth, stringless pods that are easy to prepare.
Can I grow these in pots?
Yes, as long as the pot is large enough to hold a sturdy support structure and you use high-quality, fertile potting compost.
How long do the pods grow?
The pods can reach lengths of up to 18cm.
What should I do if my area has strong winds?
It is recommended to plant them in a sheltered area or provide a temporary windbreak, as wind can damage the climbing vines.
Troubleshooting
Slow or stunted growth
Ensure the plant is receiving at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight and that the soil has adequate drainage.
Poor flowering
Check if the plants are exposed to strong winds; move them to a more sheltered position or add a windbreak.
Pods becoming tough or stringy
Harvest the pods more frequently while they are still young and tender; do not leave mature beans on the vine.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Consistently produces high yields of stringless, high-quality beans
- Awarded the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit
- Dual-purpose plant with attractive flowers for borders or patches
- Simple preparation due to the stringless pod structure
Cons
- Requires sturdy support structures like wigwams or netting
- Sensitive to strong winds, requiring a sheltered planting site
- Needs consistently fertile, well-drained soil for best results
Setup, Compatibility & Care
For the best results, select a location in your garden that receives full sun but remains protected from gusty winds. Before sowing, ensure your soil is fertile and drains well; incorporating compost or well-rotted manure a few weeks before planting can provide the necessary nutrients.
- Support: Install your chosen support (canes, netting, or string) before or immediately after sowing seeds to avoid disturbing the roots later.
- Sowing: Plant seeds 5cm deep between April and July.
- Watering: Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry spells in July and August.
- Harvesting: Regularly pick pods from July through October. Frequent harvesting prevents the pods from becoming too mature and keeps the plant productive.