Broad Beans

Broad beans (Vicia faba) are a hardy, early cropping bean that can even overwinter in mild areas. Grown for its plump pods, dwarf varieties also make good pot-grown vegetables.

Broad beans can be podded and steamed, or double-podded and eaten raw when young.
They also work wonderfully in salads.

Broad beans are tolerant of cool weather, but are best grown in sunny, sheltered sites with rich and free-draining soil. Pinch out growing tips once pods set, to deter blackfly.

They can be sown in autumn for overwintering, or from February to April.

The best harvest time runs from May to July, picking pods while beans are still small and tender.

Our planting guides are designed to help you get the best from your fruit, vegetables, and herbs. Every garden is unique, so growing conditions, weather, soil, and climate can affect results. Use this information as a helpful guide, and adapt it to suit your local conditions and gardening experience. Happy growing!