10 Heirloom Vegetables to Grow: Best Heritage Garden Guide

9. Scarlet Runner Beans: A Versatile Garden Beauty

Historical Background

Scarlet Runner Beans (Phaseolus coccineus) have been cultivated since ancient times in Central America. These stunning climbing beans serve as both an ornamental vine and a productive food crop, making them perfect for edible landscaping.

Growing Requirements

Vertical Support: Requires sturdy trellising up to 10-12 feet tall
Soil Conditions: Thrives in well-draining, rich organic soil
Sunlight: Needs full sun exposure for optimal growth
Spacing: Plant seeds 6 inches apart along the trellis

Ornamental Value

The spectacular scarlet blooms attract several beneficial pollinators:

Hummingbirds
Bees
Butterflies
These natural pollinators help increase your overall garden productivity while creating a vibrant ecosystem.

Harvesting Guidelines

Choose between two harvesting methods:

Fresh Pods
- Pick when pods are young and tender
- Harvest at 4-6 inches long
- Continuous picking encourages production
Dried Beans
- Allow pods to fully mature on vine
- Harvest when pods turn brown and leathery
- Shell beans when completely dry

Storage Solutions

Fresh Pods: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week
Dried Beans: Store in airtight containers in a cool, dark place
Can last up to 2 years when properly stored
Perfect for long-term food security

Tips for Success

Succession planting ensures continuous harvests
Provide consistent moisture during flowering
Monitor for bean beetles and remove promptly
Save seeds from your best-performing plants

Ready to discover another amazing heirloom variety? Click “next” to learn about our final selection: Black Beauty Zucchini – a classic variety that’s been delighting gardeners since the 1920s with its incredible productivity and versatile culinary uses. Find out why this particular zucchini has stood the test of time and remains a garden favorite!