Sowing
Sow dwarf bean seeds indoors from April to May for transplanting later on, or direct sow outdoors from late May to July. For early crops under glass, sow in heat from February onwards.
Indoors, sow bean seeds at a depth of 4cm (1 1/2”) in 7.5cm (3”) pots or trays of free-draining, seed sowing compost. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a plastic bag at a temperature of 18-21C (65-70F) until germination, which takes 7-10 days. Do not exclude light as this helps germination. Once germinated, grow on in cooler conditions until all risk of frost has passed and the plants are large enough to be transplanted. Gradually acclimatise them to outdoor conditions over 7 – 10 days before planting outdoors 20cm (8”) apart in rich fertile, well drained soil in full sun with protection from strong winds.
Alternatively direct sow dwarf green beans outdoors when the soil has warmed. Sow 2-3 bean seeds per station at a depth of 4cm (1 1/2”) and a distance of 20cm (8”) apart. Plant dwarf beans in rows that are 45cm (18”) apart.