Broad Beans In Containers

[j r hilton]

Has any one grown broad beans in containers? If so what size of container did you use and what planting space in the container was used. I am thinking of trying it using multipurpose compost. I think that it would be nice to have some on the patio near the house. Does any one already do this?

[zazen999]

Yes, I did last year.

As long as the container is deep, you could use pretty much anything. I used a plastic storage box but also grew tomatoes, beans and a courgette - beans and peas first, the toms grew whilst we were harvesting the peas and beans, and the courgette grew whilst the toms was growing; the tom lasted until the autumn and was one of the few that didn't get blight. Also had a tagetes in there to keep the bugs away.

Spacings; I never do spacings as I just chuck them in; but I suppose one every 3 inches would be about right.

[bluemoon]

You might be better off using a dwarf variety, such as 'The Sutton', even then they're not that dwarf and will still give you a huge crop, I'd be tempted to use spacing of 6-8 inches at least as they make pretty big plants.

[Cutecumber]

I grow broad beans in containers and in the ground and I get a dreadful crop in both cases

I haven't given up yet, but it's pretty thankless. I'm trying my fifth variety this year and they are close to death, but hey, that's gardening for you. I can get flowers but hardly any pods set.

Make sure your pots are at least 25cm deep - the deeper the better. Don't pack plants in too closely if they are in containers or it can be hard to keep them adequately moist. I think 5 to 6 inches is close enough, personally. Experiment with a few different densities and see what happens.

[j r hilton]

Thanks for your advice every body,its very useful.I hope I have more success than Cutcumber though or I will be very disappointed.

[Eternal Sunshine]

We did some in the ground & some in large pots last year - both were fine. Just go for it.

I have a packet of Aquadulce broad beans that I never planted in the autumn. It says on the packet that they can be planted from autumn to late winter - is it too late to plant them out now? Or should I buy a different variety for now & save the Aquadulce for this coming autumn?