The runner beans are amazing again this year. We are picking every other day at the moment, and we pick enough to eat that evening and at least enough for another couple of meals each time, which get prepared and go straight in the freezer. Last year, we had enough beans to last us 12 months. That was a good portion for all 3 of us each, for 52 weeks. I think we ran out just as we started picking the new crops. Not only does this save money, but more importantly, they taste superb. Far superior to anything that can bought in the shops. And yes, they are actually called RHS Wisley Magic Beans, and can be purchased from Suttons seeds.
I purchased some plants for the edge of the upper pathway and planted them in spring of this year. I hadn't come across them before, but the label stated that they love being in full hot and direct sun. During this hot spell, they had just frizzled into dry twigs, even though they had been planted some months before, and had been watered in well, and having the roots sprinkled with RootGrow (root enhancing fungus).
Initially they grew very quickly, which normally happens when I treat the roots with RootGrow, and they flowered as they should have late Spring. They were watered each and every night once the temperature had dropped and the sun had gone off the plants, to avoid burning, but they never came back. I contacted the supplier, who told me that it had been exceptionally hot weather and to take instructions on any plant with a pinch of salt! I replaced them today with some varigated 'Dead Nettles', which according to the label, thrive in shade or dappled shade. Well, again the label couldn't be more wrong. Each night you can easily notice how they have grown in just a day. I am sure if you sat and watched them, you would be able to see them grow. The moral of this story is, unless you know a certain plant won't survive in a certain place, just try it, you can always change it afterwards if it doesn't take. |
John Holiday
A member of KHS (Kidderminster Horticultural Society) Archives
July 2021
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