How to Grow Scarlet Runner Bean in New Zealand
A climbing bean with bright scarlet flowers that pull in bees and other pollinators. It prefers cooler conditions than standard beans, so in Auckland sow from October and again in late summer for an autumn crop. Eat young pods as green beans and dry the mature beans for stews.
When to plant scarlet runner bean in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | January, October, November, December |
| Auckland | January, October, November, December |
| Waikato & BoP | January, October, November, December |
| Wellington | January, October, November, December |
| Nelson & Marlborough | January, October, November, December |
| Canterbury | November, December |
| Otago & Southland | January, October, November, December |
| Central Otago | January, October, November, December |
Best scarlet runner bean varieties for NZ
- Scarlet Runner — Vigorous climber with brilliant scarlet flowers and long flat pods. (Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds, Mitre 10)
- Painted Lady — Heritage runner with bicolour red-and-white flowers, ornamental and edible. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds)
How to grow scarlet runner bean
- Space plants about 20cm apart.
- Sow seed around 4cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 70 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 10 days.
Companion planting
Grow scarlet runner bean near: Corn, Lettuce, Radish, Marigold.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Aphids, Green vegetable bug, Slugs. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant scarlet runner bean in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in January, October, November, December. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy scarlet runner bean seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds, Mitre 10.