Sowing seeds in pots
If the soil is particularly wet or cold, direct sowing outside is best avoided for all types of beans. Sowing seeds indoors gives a faster and more reliable germination rate, particularly for runner beans. It is very important that seeds grown indoors are first 'hardened off' so that they can cope with the cooler conditions outdoors. The seedlings should be ready to plant out after about three weeks.

Sow a single bean seed per pot in multi-purpose compost at a depth of 4cm (1.5in). If using a seed tray, sow the beans 5cm (2in) apart.
Water well until the compost is thoroughly damp and repeat as necessary. The bean seed may not germinate if the compost dries out.
Label the pot clearly, and place on a sunny windowsill to germinate, which will take just a few days. When planting out, place the young plants about 15cm apart at the base of a cane. Runners are usually planted in double rows that are about 45cm apart.