When to Plant Broad Beans in the UK

Broad beans grow well in cool conditions and are often planted earlier than many other vegetables. Planting at the right time helps plants establish before warmer weather arrives.

Broad beans are usually grown from seed planted directly into the soil.

Autumn planting

Broad beans can be planted in autumn, often in October or November, for early crops the following year.

Plants grow slowly over winter and resume growth in spring.

Spring planting

Broad bean seeds are also commonly planted from February to April, once soil becomes workable.

Spring planting usually produces reliable harvests.

Growing broad beans in containers

Broad beans can be planted in containers filled with compost.

For container advice, see growing broad beans in containers.

Planning the broad bean growing season

Broad beans planted in autumn or spring are usually harvested in late spring or early summer.

For growing advice, see how to grow broad beans in the UK.