From a recent telephone call to UBC Hortline: I have planted scarlet runner (pole) beans and the fruit blossom is dropping off with only one in twenty turning into bean pods. What am I doing wrong?
Lack of pods is a common bean problem. There are many causes. It could be mechanical damage caused by heavy rains or strong water sprays (in this case, you should just wait for new blossoms to appear). It might be a zinc deficiency, for which you can spray your plants with seaweed extract. Sparrows and bumble bees can damage bean pods. Our recent bout of hot, dry weather likely affected your crop (try keeping roots moist by digging in compost, mulching, and watering). You might also avoid this problem by growing a pink or white flowered variety. Hope that helps!
