Legume

Broad Bean

Autumn-sown for an early hungry-gap crop — pinch tops to deter blackfly.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Moderate

Soil

Well-drained

Difficulty

Easy

Container

Yes

Edible part

Beans

Lifecycle

Annual

Hardiness

Hardy

cool-seasonoverwinter

Plants well with

Where to source

Get growing in United Kingdom

Some links may earn us a small commission — at no cost to you.

Thompson & Morgan

Stocks cold-hardy broad bean varieties suited to London's short growing season and autumn sowing.

Crocus

Offers large terracotta pots ideal for broad beans, which need deep containers in London gardens.

Amazon UK

Supplies quality digging tools essential for preparing heavy clay soils common around London.