Broad beans
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There’s no waste with this plant as they are able to harvest nitrogen from the air, so when finished dig plants and roots back into the soil.
Likes: Well-drained soil enriched with compost.
Dislikes: Being transplanted and sudden temperature changes.
When to plant/sow in zone:
How to start: Soak seeds overnight in diluted seaweed extract (1 tsp to 1L) and then plant directly into soil, at a depth of 3–5cm with 15cm spaces between each seed.
How to grow: Water the seeds well but don’t water again until they are growing vigorously. Build a trellis so that plants are supported as they grow.
When to harvest: Broad beans can be harvested and eaten small, pod and all, or left to mature and just the beans eaten.
Wondering what to plant when?
Use our planner to create a planting calendar for your climate zone
View Planting Guide
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Broad bean harvesting
Broad beans are delicious, good for the soil and easy to grow. They can be planted from autumn to spring in most regions of Australia.