How to grow Broad Bean in the UK
Vicia faba
Broad Bean (Vicia faba) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Autumn-sown plants are hardier and produce earlier. Pinch tops in flower to deter blackfly. This guide covers when and how to sow Broad Bean, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Broad Bean
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb Sow | Mar | Apr | May Harvest | Jun Harvest | Jul Harvest | Aug Harvest | Sep | Oct Sow | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, free-draining soil enriched with garden compost
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.0 (neutral)
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 5 cm
- Spacing
- 20 cm apart, double rows
- Sowing
- Sow Oct–Nov (hardy types) or Feb–Apr
- Growing
- Support tall types; pinch out tips once in flower to deter blackfly
- Harvest & upkeep
- Pick pods young and tender from the bottom
- Watch for
- Blackfly, chocolate spot, pea & bean weevil
Companion planting for Broad Bean
Grows well with:
Keep apart from:
Add Broad Bean to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Broad Bean FAQs
When should I sow Broad Bean in the UK?
In the UK, sow Broad Bean in February, October. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Broad Bean?
Broad Bean grows well alongside Potato, Rosemary, Summer Savory, Sweetcorn. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
What should you not plant near Broad Bean?
Keep Broad Bean away from Chives, Florence Fennel, Fennel, Garlic, Leek, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Broad Bean need?
Broad Bean prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Broad Bean ready to harvest?
Broad Bean is typically ready to harvest in May, June, July, August in the UK.
Is Broad Bean easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Autumn-sown plants are hardier and produce earlier. Pinch tops in flower to deter blackfly.