Origin
Phaseolus multiflorus Lam., more commonly known as scarlet runner bean, is native to the mountains of Central America and Mexico. It has been cultivated for thousands of years in many regions of the world for its edible beans and ornamental flowers.
Common Names
Scarlet runner bean is its most well-known name, but it is also referred to as multiflora bean, fire bean, mammoth bean, and Dutch runner bean.
Uses
Phaseolus multiflorus Lam. has both culinary and ornamental uses. The edible beans are nutritious and high in protein, fiber, and vitamins. They can be used in many dishes, including soups, stews, salads, and as a side dish. Scarlet runner beans are also popular in vegetarian and vegan diets. Besides, the plant is also grown as an ornamental for its attractive and vibrant red flowers.
General Appearance
The Phaseolus multiflorus Lam. plant is a perennial vine that can grow up to 10 feet tall. The leaves are heart-shaped, ranging in size from 15 to 25 cm, and bright green in color. The flowers are shaped like a butterfly, with five petals that are red, pink, or white. The fruit is a pod that contains several beans, varying in color from black to white, and can be up to 20 cm long. This plant is a fast grower, and it is commonly used as a cover crop.
Light Requirements:
For optimal growth, Phaseolus multiflorus Lam. requires full sun exposure and at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The plant is tolerant of some partial shade, but growth and yield may be reduced if the plant does not receive sufficient light.
Temperature Requirements:
Phaseolus multiflorus Lam. is a warm-season crop that requires a consistent temperature range of 65-85°F (18-29°C) for optimal growth and development. Cold temperatures below 55°F (13°C) can stunt growth and delay maturation. Frost can cause damage or death to the plant.
Soil Requirements:
The plant thrives in moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and with a pH range of 6.0-6.8. The soil should be loose and friable to allow the roots to grow properly. The addition of compost or manure to the soil before planting can help improve soil structure and fertility. Avoid planting in heavy clay soils or soil with poor drainage.
Cultivation of Phaseolus multiflorus Lam.
Phaseolus multiflorus Lam., also known as French bean, is a warm-season crop that grows best in well-drained soil. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 20°C and 30°C. The plant requires adequate sunlight and grows well in an acidic to neutral soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
The crop can be sown directly in the field after the last frost date. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 2 inches and spaced about 6 inches apart in rows that are 2 feet apart. Alternatively, the seeds can be started indoors 3 to 4 weeks before the last frost date and transplanted to the field after the seedlings have grown to about 3 inches tall.
Watering needs of Phaseolus multiflorus Lam.
French beans require regular and consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Deep watering once a week is sufficient for French beans. However, during dry periods, the crop may need additional watering. Overwatering can damage the plant, and care should be taken to ensure that the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization of Phaseolus multiflorus Lam.
The French bean plant is a heavy feeder and requires a well-balanced fertilizer. Before planting, apply a fertilizer with high phosphorus and potassium content to promote root development and flowering. Once the plant has started producing pods, switch to a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to encourage vegetative growth. Fertilizer application should be done every two weeks until the pods start to develop. Then, stop fertilizing to ensure that the plant focuses on pod development.
Pruning of Phaseolus multiflorus Lam.
French beans require minimal pruning. However, removing the dead flowers and pods will promote the growth of new ones. Pinching off the tips of the plant when the French beans have reached their desired height can encourage branching and increase the yield. Be careful not to remove too much foliage, as the plant requires leaves to photosynthesize and produce energy for growth and pod development.
Propagation of Phaseolus multiflorus Lam.
Phaseolus multiflorus Lam., commonly known as scarlet runner bean or multiflora bean, is a perennial vine that produces edible beans and ornamental flowers. Propagation of this plant can be done through the following methods:
Seed propagation
The most common way of propagating Phaseolus multiflorus Lam. is through seeds. The seeds are usually sown directly into the soil in spring, after the last frost has passed. It is best to choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. The seeds should be planted at a depth of about 1 inch and spaced about 6 inches apart. Germination usually occurs within 7 to 10 days.
Cuttings
Propagation via cuttings is also possible for Phaseolus multiflorus Lam. This method involves taking stem cuttings from a mature plant. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and taken from healthy, disease-free plants. The cuttings are then planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until roots form. Once the roots have formed, the new plant can be transplanted to a permanent location.
Division
Propagation through division is suitable for mature Phaseolus multiflorus Lam. plants. This method involves dividing the plant's root ball carefully and replanting the individual sections in a new location. It is best to do this during the plant's dormant period, which is typically in early spring or fall. Make sure to water the newly planted sections well until they are established.
Air layering
Air layering is another method for propagating Phaseolus multiflorus Lam. This method involves creating a wound in a stem and encouraging it to grow roots while still attached to the parent plant. This is done by wrapping moist sphagnum moss around the wound and covering it with plastic wrap. The moss should be kept moist, and roots will form in about 4 to 6 weeks. Once the roots are established, the new plant can be cut free from the parent plant and transplanted.
Overall, there are several propagation methods available for Phaseolus multiflorus Lam. These methods can be used to create new plants for personal enjoyment or to share with others.
Disease Management
Phaseolus multiflorus Lam., commonly known as the scarlet runner bean, is susceptible to various diseases that can significantly affect its production. The following are common diseases that affect the plant:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the foliage, stem, and pods of the plant. It causes circular reddish-brown lesions that later turn into sunken black or dark-brown spots. The disease can be managed by ensuring that the plants are adequately spaced to increase air circulation. Farmers can also apply a fungicide before and after flowering to reduce the incidence of the disease.
Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It causes orange-yellow spots on the upper surface of the leaves and dusty yellow spots on the underside. The disease can be managed by removing infected leaves and destroying them. Farmers can also apply a copper-based fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Mosaic virus
Mosaic virus is a viral disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It causes yellow-green mottling on the leaves, which later turns into a mosaic-like pattern. The disease can be managed by removing infected plants and planting resistant varieties.
Pest Management
The following pests are common in Phaseolus multiflorus Lam. :
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant. They cause the leaves to curl and distort. Aphids can be controlled by spraying the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the undersides of the leaves of the plant, causing silvering and yellowing of the leaves. They can be managed by washing down the plants with water or spraying them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Bean Beetle
Bean beetle is a small beetle that feeds on the leaves of the plant, causing skeletonization of the leaves. They can be managed by using row covers or spraying the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Cutworms
Cutworms are larvae of moths that cut the roots and stem of the plant, causing wilting and death. They can be managed by placing collars around the seedlings or spraying the plants with Bacillus thuringiensis.
