Broad beans are a fantastic, easy-to-grow, super-tasty source of protein and fibre. In the UK broad bean seed can be sown directly into the ground outside either in October or November or in March, April or May. Here is some simple guidance on how to grow your own Broad Beans…
The first and most important stage before you grow your own broad beans is to make sure that your ground is free of weeds and enriched with organic matter (e.g. compost). The best time to do this is in the autumn and it is good to get into the habit of feeding your soil regularly every year, but don’t worry if you haven’t, you can always add well rotted organic matter prior to planting.
How to grow your own Broad Beans:
- Sow seeds 6 cm deep and 20 cm apart direct to ground outside in October/November or March/ April/May
- Water well
- Hoe between rows to keep on top of any weeds
- Harvest pods when they are visibly swelling throughout the summer