WHAT’S INSIDE THE JUNE GROW KIT
June is all about growth, abundance and making the most of the longer days. This month’s Grow Kit combines Carrots, Dwarf Runner Beans and Chives, bringing together crops that are productive, beginner friendly and packed with flavour.
This week we're focusing on Dwarf Runner Beans, a compact crop that delivers impressive harvests without taking over your growing space. Perfect for patios, raised beds and containers, these beans are ideal for gardeners looking for maximum reward with minimal fuss.
DWARF RUNNER BEANS
Dwarf Runner Beans produce tender, flavourful pods on compact plants that don't require tall supports. Their manageable size makes them an excellent choice for smaller gardens while still providing generous harvests throughout summer.
Fast growing and highly productive, they offer a wonderful introduction to growing vegetables. Regular picking encourages more beans to develop, keeping plants productive for weeks.
HOW TO GROW DWARF RUNNER BEANS
Sow seeds directly outdoors once the soil has warmed and all risk of frost has passed. Plant seeds around 3–5cm deep in a sunny, sheltered position with fertile, well drained soil.
Water regularly during dry periods, especially once flowers begin to appear. Unlike climbing runner beans, dwarf varieties remain compact and generally don't need extensive support, so can be grown in a large container.
Harvest pods while they are young and tender. Picking frequently will encourage plants to continue producing throughout the season, rewarding you with a steady supply of fresh beans.
Runner Bean & Tomato Stew
Simple, nutritious and full of flavour, this runner bean and tomato stew is a great way to use fresh runner beans. Rich in fibre and vitamins, it works well as a light meal or as a side dish with crusty bread.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Serves: 2–3 people
Ingredients
For the stew
300g runner beans
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion (finely chopped)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
400g chopped tomatoes (1 tin)
1 tbsp tomato purée
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt & black pepper (to taste)
Fresh parsley or basil (optional)
Method
1. Prepare the runner beans
Wash the runner beans and trim the ends.
Remove any tough strings from the edges and slice the beans into thin strips.
2. Cook the onion
Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan or saucepan.
Add the onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
3. Add the garlic
Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring regularly.
4. Make the tomato sauce
Add:
Chopped tomatoes
Tomato purée
Oregano
Salt and pepper
Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the runner beans
Add the sliced runner beans to the tomato sauce.
Stir to coat them evenly.
6. Simmer
Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the runner beans are tender.
7. Finish the dish
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Stir through fresh parsley or basil if using.
8. Serve
Serve warm as a side dish or with crusty bread for a light meal.
Tips
To remove the strings, run a potato peeler down both edges of the runner beans before slicing.
Alternatively, snap off the ends and pull away any strings by hand.
Younger runner beans are usually more tender and may need less preparation.
Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a little heat.
A sprinkle of feta cheese works well on top before serving.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the hob or in the microwave.
Suitable for freezing for up to 3 months.
You can purchase the June Grow Kit as a one-off or subscribe monthly or bi-monthly to enjoy discounted prices and exclusive access to our Grow Line via WhatsApp for personalised support whenever you need it. Choose from Small, Medium, or Large to suit your space, whether you’re sowing on a sunny windowsill, nurturing seedlings in a greenhouse or planting directly into garden beds.
Join our community on Facebook in Let’s Grow Together: From Seed To Plate or reach out to us anytime across our socials on Instagram (@seedfolkco) and Facebook (@seedfolkco)
Let’s Grow Together: One Seed at a Time.
