When the plants reach the top of their supports, pinch out their growing tips to help divert energy into flower and pod production – and to avoid the plants turning into a jungle of tangled stems and foliage.

Should I pinch out the tops of runner beans?

Runner beans need a strong support, such a wigwam. ... When your runner bean plants reach the tops of the canes, pinch out the growing tip of each one to encourage bushier growth. Beans are thirsty plants so water regularly, especially when in flower, and mulch the soil surface around the roots, to lock in moisture.

Should I nip runner beans?

QUESTION: When the beans have reached the top of the canes do you nip then out or leave them? ANSWER: Nip them out 15cm from the top. If you leave them to continue growing you will end up with a congested mass of foliage at the top which produces very few beans.