Broad beans -what sort of support for them?

[dan1979]

As title, they're about a foot high at the moment and have minimal support (just enough to keep them off the ground).

Does each one need a cane or should it be in rows with string across and the plants climbing?

[scared55]

You beat me to it - I was about to research the same question!

KK

[Birdie Wife]

I would suggest a cane for each one, unless they're in a very sheltered spot, as they'll need to be protected from winter gales. They don't have tendrils like peas so you'll need to tie them in.

[scared55]

Thanks BW. I shall dismiss from my mind the image of corporal punishment for beans! I suppose it could be worse - corporal punishment for has-beens!

KK

[Birdie Wife]

oh dear...

[Phreddy]

Didn't think of winter gales. I have mine in early spring without support. Maybe a cane each is a good idea.

Phreddy

[rustylady]

Usual advice is to plant them in double rows. Put stakes around the "bed" and run string from stake to stake enclosing the bean plants. One string around 9" high and another about six to eight inches higher than that.

[Snadger]

Usual advice is to plant them in double rows. Put stakes around the "bed" and run string from stake to stake enclosing the bean plants. One string around 9" high and another about six to eight inches higher than that.

Thats the way I do it and it's always worked for me until last year when they attained a height of six foot! The stakes weren't big enough and I finished up braying extra supports in, in the middle of a gale which was threatening to demolish the lot!

[Alison]

That's what I do too although last Jan's storms did for me a fair bit and I ended up doing better with the Spring sown ones.

[Two_Sheds]

I wouldn't put a cane on each one, like Runners or French - Broads don't cling. As Rustylady says, double rows with canes and twine round the outside should keep them up. I never stake mine (too lazy) but the winds ensure my boreds never get higher than about 15 inches, and the yield is therefore reduced. I intend to stake them this year, to make the planting worthwhile.

[moggssue]

Ohhhh, I was hoping to plant some broadies next week, when I do my garlic - will that be too late then? (Sorry, hijacking again!).

[Flummery]

No, should be fine - especially down there in sunny Bucks!

[moggssue]

Cheers Flummery! And sunny it is as well today - bit chilly but gloriously bright and clear, the way I love it!