New breeding to extend the harvesting period and to improve weather resistance has produced dwarf bean ‘Caledonia’. With a strong root system, plants reach a height of 60cm (2ft) and produce a profusion of pods over a longer harvesting season. Plants are an attractive addition to the kitchen garden.

Sowing

Sow seeds indoors individually in 7.5cm (3in) pots at 18-21°C (65-70°F) from February to May for transplanting outdoors after all risk of frost has passed. Alternatively, sow direct outdoors May to July in warm soil, as germination can be erratic in cold, wet soils. Sow 2 or 3 seeds 4cm (1½in) deep, allowing 20cm (8in) between each group of seeds and 45cm (18in) between rows with no need to thin out. For early crops under glass, sow in heat from February onwards.

Growing Info

Gradually acclimatise indoor-grown plants to outdoor conditions for a few days before planting out 20cm (8in) apart after all risk of frost is passed. Use cloches to aid establishment of earliest sowings. Hoe regularly and keep well watered and mulched during dry periods. Harvest regularly whilst young for highest yields and to extend the season.