Growing Broad Beans at the Allotment

Broad beans are a staple of the Legumes family, offering a rich harvest for minimal effort. They are versatile and can thrive in various conditions with a bit of care.

Sowing Broad Beans

Choosing Varieties

• Dwarf varieties are ideal for windy spots.
• Aquadulce Claudia is a great autumn-sowing option.
• Windsor varieties are known for producing larger beans with a wonderful flavor.

Sowing Indoors and Outdoors

• Indoors: Start in small pots before spring, usually from February onwards. Sow seeds about 2 inches deep in good compost. Keep in a light environment and water well. Transplant them outside a few weeks later when mild conditions prevail.
• Direct Sowing: You can sow directly from March to mid-May if the weather is mild. Ensure your soil is well-prepared with good compost or well-rotted manure. For a head start, some varieties can be sown directly in November or February in milder areas.

Planting Method

• Plant in rows, 6-10 inches apart to ensure easy picking.
• Sow a surplus of seeds to replace any failing plants.
• Water thoroughly when planting and continue to water well during dry spells.

Growing Broad Beans

Plant Care

• Give plants a thorough drenching once they start flowering and repeat after a week or two.
• During hot, dry periods, water regularly and deeply.
• Some larger plants may require support using canes and string to keep them upright.

Pinching Out and Pest Control

• Pinch out the shoot tips once the lower flowers have set pods. The tips are edible and delicious and this practice reduces blackfly infestations.
• Keep an eye out for blackfly. They can be easily washed off if they become a problem.
• Potash is beneficial in preventing the fungal disease known as Chocolate Spot. Add potash during planting, and ensure the plants have adequate spacing to reduce disease spread.
• Rust may become an issue later in the season, often due to excessive rain. Affected pods may be smaller, and leaves may drop.
• Protect seeds from mice, which are known to nibble on them.

Harvesting Broad Beans

When to Harvest

• You can start picking young pods when they reach 3 inches long, from late spring to midsummer, depending on the variety and sowing time.
• Pick pods regularly to encourage continuous growth. Select pods where you can feel and see the beans inside.
• Pods mature quicker at the lower parts of the plant, so check these frequently.

Harvesting Tips

• Smaller beans are more tender and sweeter, while larger, older beans can be tougher.
• When harvesting larger pods, blanch and peel the beans before storing or cooking.

Storing Broad Beans

• Broad beans can be frozen or dried. When freezing, blanch and peel older beans to maintain their quality.

Growing Broad Beans in Summary

Sowing Broad Beans

• Sow indoors from February.
• Sow directly from March to mid-May.
• For winter varieties, sow from October to November.

Growing Broad Beans

• Water well during dry spells and soak thoroughly when flowering.
• Add potash to help prevent Chocolate Spot.
• Pinch out shoot tips to reduce blackfly.
• Support plants if necessary.

Harvesting Broad Beans

• Pick regularly when the beans are visible in the pod.
• Harvest from June to October, with winter varieties ready in June.
• Freeze or dry for storage, and blanch and peel larger beans first.

Broad beans are a fantastic addition to your allotment, providing a nutritious harvest that’s simple to grow with a few precautions. Whether you prefer them small and sweet or large and hearty, broad beans can elevate your gardening experience and your plate!