Runner Beans

[Sarahlee]

About four of my runner bean plants have had the growing tip eaten by snails in the greenhouse. Will these still grow? (Which I doubt) If I cut the stem back to the last set of leaves will they grow on from there?

[richard p]

they should send out more shoots from lower down the plant. anyway leave them in place and see what happens

[Sarahlee]

So you wouldn't cut the stem back to the last set of leaves?

[Chez]

Hello Sarahlee - Having been in your situation several times, I am with Richard on this. Runner beans will send out more shoots, either from the first set of leaves or the base. No need to cut back to the first set of leaves, but if you really want to for aesthetic reasons, I would wait until you have the new growth romping away before doing so.

[Sarahlee]

Thanks Richard and Chez. I will just leave them to carry on growing then.

[bigpepperplant]

i've had lots and lots of flowers on my Painted Lady runner beans and the plants are vigorous and healthy but as yet not a single bean has formed. I'm feeding every other week and watering regularly. They're four in a growbag planted in pots to increase the root run. Anyone know if there's anything I can do to get some beans?

[oldherbaceous]

Good afternoon bigpepperplant, i always spray the plants with water in the evening, and i'm convinced this helps the flowers to set.
I've had a really good set this year so far.
By the way Painted Lady normally have one of the easiest sets, just to cheer you up.

Kind regards Old Herbaceous.

Theres no fool like an old fool