Broad Bean
Vicia faba
The hardiest of all beans and one of the oldest cultivated plants in Britain, broad beans are among the first crops of the year — sown in autumn or late winter, they fill the hungry gap in May and June when the garden is still coming to life. Eaten young and sweet, straight from the pod, nothing compares.
SowingDirect sow
Sunlight☀️ Full sun
Water💧💧 Moderate
Days to harvest90–150
Soil pH6–7
Spacing23cm × 45cm
Planting Calendar
Sow indoorsSow outdoorsTransplantHarvest
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Autumn Sowing
Overwintering varieties (such as 'Aquadulce Claudia') can be sown in October–November. They will germinate, develop slowly through winter, and produce an early crop in May — 4–6 weeks ahead of spring-sown plants. Protect with cloches in harsh winters.Spring Sowing
Sow 4–5cm deep and 23cm apart in double rows. Allow 45cm between double rows for access.Pinching Out
When the first pods start to form, pinch out the growing tips of the plant. This directs energy into pod development and removes the tender tips that blackfly find most attractive.Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil. Will grow in most soils including heavier clay.