[erainn]

Have a few dwarf Borlotti (Nano) seedlings in three inch pots, which I have been advised should not be planted out into my allotment until mid-May, even here within a few miles of the Sussex coast. My concern is that the stems are already nearly four inches high and am wondering about re-potting, is that the way to go, or could I plant out under fleece. Same is happening with Runner Beans also.

Any thoughts, shared experience, advice most welcome

[m1ckz]

i would put them out,,mine are out.both runner an dwawf
have to chance it , although it is a tad early

[Kleftiwallah]

"Gerrem out" and spend the evenings glued to the weather forecast like the rest of us !

[Salmo]

Stand them outside in a shady place but be prepared to bring them inside if frost is forecast. No need for any light at night so a shed or garage is fine. Remember to water them.

[shokkyy]

Mine have been out since 9th April and they're fine. My runner and french beans are out as well now.

[Yorkie]

We've had an incredibly mild April.  Generally, frosts are forecast until at least mid-May (end of May here in Yorkshire).  Frosts will certainly set back, possibly even kill, your bean plants so putting them out now is a risk.  They are likely to be checked at the very least by low temperatures which are likely between now and the end of May.  If you're happy to take the risk, then do plant them out. 

I am not prepared to risk it with my beans and won't sow them till this weekend. 

[gazza975526570]

Id agree normally Yorkie but as they are already growing tall personally id plant them and risk it - you could always sow a few more in case frost does get them.

Having said that there doesnt appear any over the short term

[Yorkie]

We had zero degrees here a couple of nights ago - but resowing more would be a good back-up plan and they will soon catch up with those that will be checked by planting out now.

[shokkyy]

It does depend on your location. In my area the last frost date is early May, and that's basically next week

[azubah]

I have often seen runner beans brought up to the lottie in 3.5 inch pots and 3 ft tall, at this time of year. They look so unhealthy that I go away expecting to see them die over the next week or two, but mostly they get away with it and get a very early crop.
It is always worth taking the risk when they are getting too big as you have little to lose.