Planting broad beans: Which way up? And all the other questions you might have

Looking to add broad beans to your growing list this year? They make a great addition to any vegetable garden, as they’re easy to grow, hardy in cooler temperatures, and packed with plenty of flavour and nutrients.

Plus, it’s one of those vegetables that tastes so much better homegrown than what you buy in the shops.

But a common question that comes up for those who’ve never grown them before is, when planting broad beans, which way up should the seeds go?

This is just one of the many questions people have about planting broad beans, so we’ve shared our knowledge and explained the best ways to ensure they grow strong and healthy, whether you’re planting in the autumn or spring, in the ground or pots.

Planting broad beans: Which way up? 

When you plant broad beans, does it matter which way you put the seed in the soil? Well, some people say it does, and others say it doesn’t.

Broad beans are large, kidney-shaped seeds, and there’s a small black mark on one side. This black mark is where the root will emerge.

It’s ideal that you plant broad beans on their side with the black mark facing downwards or sideways. This gives the seed the best chance to allow the shoot to grow upwards and the root to head down with minimal resistance.

It’s best to plant the seeds around 5cm deep in the soil and water them gently.

Planting broad beans in autumn 

Autumn is a great time to plant broad beans, as they’re such a hardy vegetable. If you sow them in late October to November, these varieties have the chance to establish strong roots before winter sets in. This will give them a head start with earlier crops in spring.

It’s best to only plant broad beans in autumn if your soil is well-drained or you live in a mild region in the UK. If you’re in a colder area or your soil is prone to waterlogging, it’s better to sow them into pots and keep them undercover until early spring. 

How to grow broad beans in pots

No garden bed? No problem. Broad beans grow well in containers, making them a great option for patios and balconies. Here’s how you can do it: 

• Choose a deep pot, something at least 30cm high, with good drainage. 

• Use multi-purpose compost that is enriched with a slow-release fertiliser. 

• Plant seeds about 5cm deep and 15-20cm apart. 

• Keep the pots in a sunny, sheltered spot. 

• Water consistently and don’t let the soil dry out. 

When to plant broad beans in the UK? 

Broad beans can be planted in autumn, October or November, or early spring, February to April.

If you sow them in autumn, you’ll get earlier crops. But if you live in colder parts of the UK or have heavier soil, you’ll need to sow them in spring.

For those who are starting their broad bean growth indoors, you can sow them as early as January. Sow them in pots or root trainers and transplant them when the seedlings are 10-15cm tall.

How to support broad beans 

Broad bean plants can grow tall and become top-heavy as a result, especially when the pods start forming. To prevent them from flopping over or snapping in strong winds, it’s important that you support them properly. 

• Use canes and string to create a simple frame, running twine in horizontal lines around the rows. 

• For smaller plots, individual bamboo canes can be tied to each plant. 

• Dwarf varieties may not need support, but it’s important to keep an eye on them as they mature. 

How many broad bean plants per person?

It’s a good idea to grow between 10 and 15 plants per person, as this will give you multiple harvests through the growing season. If you want to freeze any further crops, you should scale up as you see fit.

Broad bean spacing 

Proper spacing between your broad bean plants helps with good airflow, reduces disease risk, and gives the plants enough room to thrive. It’s best to:

• Space plants around 20-25cm apart 

• Space rows around 40-45cm apart 

Do broad beans need pinching out? 

Yes, they do need pinching out; here’s why. Once your broad bean plants have developed three or four sets of flowers, it’s best to pinch out the top few centimetres of the main stem. Doing this will help the plant to focus its energy on developing pods rather than growing taller. Plus, if you remove the tender tips, you can deter blackfly infestations, as these pests are particularly attracted to the soft new growth.

What’s great is that you don’t just have to bin these tips. They’re edible. You can lightly steam or sauté them, making them a delicious addition to your menu. 

Common problems when growing broad beans 

Broad beans are great, as you can mostly rely on them to grow well. But these are some of the problems you might face: 

• Blackfly infestations: The small, dark aphids will cluster on the tender tips of the plants. Make sure you’re regularly checking them and pinching out the tops to help stop the infestation. 

• Overwatering: Too much water can lead to yellowing leaves and root rot. Soil needs good drainage, and water is only needed when the topsoil feels dry. 

• Underwatering: However, be mindful that not enough water will lead to wilting and dry, crispy leaf edges. Consistent moisture is needed, especially during flowering and pod development. 

• Pests: Slugs and snails will be after your seedlings. Use barriers or organic slug pellets to help protect your plants. 

• Diseases: Fungal diseases like rust can affect broad beans, especially in damp conditions. This is why enough spacing is needed between plants. 

Harvesting Broad Beans: When and how 

Broad beans are typically ready to harvest about 14-16 weeks after sowing. The ideal time to pick them is when the pods are well-filled and the beans inside have reached a good size, but they’re still tender. 

To harvest, hold the stem with one hand and pull the pod downward with the other to avoid damaging the plant. Regular picking encourages the plant to produce more pods. 

Companion planting for broad beans 

Companion planting can really help boost your crop of broad beans. Consider these options: 

• Marigolds: Their strong scent will deter aphids and other pests. 

• Nasturtiums: These act as a trap crop, keeping aphids away from your beans. 

• Carrots: They grow well alongside broad beans and are great for making the most of space in your vegetable garden. 

• Cabbage and spinach: These leafy greens will benefit from the nitrogen that broad beans add to the soil. 

Avoid planting broad beans near onions, garlic, or fennel, as they can negatively affect each other’s growth. 

Can you grow broad beans indoors or in a greenhouse? 

Starting broad beans indoors or in a greenhouse can give you a head start, especially in colder parts of the UK. Sow your seeds in pots or modules and place them in a frost-free place. They should germinate within three weeks. 

Once the seedlings are about 10-15cm tall and the risk of frost has passed, you can transplant them outdoors. 

Growing in a greenhouse is great, because you can protect them from pests and harsh weather. The great part is that you could get an earlier and more abundant crop. 

Ready to grow your own broad beans? 

Whether you’re planting in pots on a balcony or starting a full-blown veg patch, broad beans are a brilliant crop for beginners and seasoned gardeners too. With the right tips, like ours above, and a little attention, you’ll be tucking into homegrown beans before you know it.

Need seeds, compost, tools, or plant supports? Shop everything you need for growing broad beans at Whitaker’s Garden Centre.

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