Broad beans are one of the earliest crops UK gardeners can sow, with autumn sowings going in during October and November for a June harvest. Spring sowings from February to April crop from July onwards. A single double row of 20 plants yields 8-10kg of beans. Aquadulce Claudia is the hardiest variety for autumn sowing, surviving temperatures down to minus 10C.
Key takeaways
- Sow Aquadulce Claudia in October or November for the earliest harvest in June, three weeks ahead of spring sowings
- Spring sowings from February to April give reliable crops from July, with less risk of winter losses
- Plant in double rows 23cm apart with 60cm between each pair of rows for easy picking and good airflow
- Pinch out growing tips when the lowest four trusses have set to control blackfly and speed up ripening
- Harvest pods when the beans are the size of a thumbnail for the sweetest, most tender flavour
- Leave roots in the ground after harvest to release fixed nitrogen, benefiting the next crop in your rotation
broad beans vegetables grow your own allotment legumes nitrogen fixing beginner friendly
Our team produces practical UK gardening guidance from source research, contributor records and established horticultural practice. Editorial standards are overseen by Matt W.
