Broad Bean
Vicia faba
A hardy, reliable crop for UK gardens, broad beans do well in open ground and cope with cool weather better than most beans. Sow in autumn for an earlier crop or from late winter into spring for a main harvest, then pick pods young and often for the best flavour.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Broad Bean
Planting Calendar
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Sow Seeds
every 3 weeksSow seeds around in deep modules, root trainers, or straight into the ground once the soil is workable. Keep the compost just moist and protect seedlings from mice and pigeons.
Set Up Support
Put in canes, twine, or netting early, from , before the plants get tall. Strong support helps prevent wind rock and makes it easier to tie in growth as it develops.
Plant Out Seedlings
Move seedlings to their final positions around after hardening them off. Space them apart in rows apart, then water in thoroughly straight away.
Water Well
every 2 weeksFrom , water plants freely when flowering starts and again as pods swell. Keep the soil evenly moist, especially in dry spells, so flowers do not drop and pods fill properly.
Harvest Pods
every 3 daysPick pods from when they are well filled but still tender. Harvest every few days to keep new pods forming, and stop once the beans inside have become thick and starchy.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Broad Bean.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Broad Bean to consider
Aquadulce Claudia
A hardy, reliable variety for autumn or spring sowing, with long pods and good winter resilience.
The Sutton
A compact dwarf variety that suits smaller plots and containers, with neat plants and a useful early crop.
Imperial Green Longpod
A popular tall variety with long pods and good yields, best with proper support.
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