Broad Bean Imperial Green - Longpod

Broad Bean 'Imperial Green Longpod' is a variety of broad bean, a hardy, upright annual, favourite with exhibitors, with square-sectioned stems clothed with oblong, blue-green leaves. Clusters of scented, tubular, black and white flowers are produced all the way up the stem, due to its reliable production of impressively long and uniform pods which can stretch up to 30cm long

This flavoursome broad bean averages 8 large, dark green beans per pod which are superb for making soup or as a cooked vegetable. Any surplus beans will freeze well without discolouring. Height: 100cm (39"). Spread: 45cm (18").

They are superb cooked fresh but will also freeze well. This reliable and heavy cropping variety is the deserved winner of an RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Recommended by the RHS to be an excellent attractant and nectar source for bees and other beneficial insects.

Growing Instructions:

For Early Cropping
Sow under protection in trays or modules February to March.
Set out when large enough to handle 10" (25 cm) apart in interspaced double rows 24" (60 cm) apart.
(can also be direct sown as per 'main cropping' under cloches February to March.
For Main Cropping

Sow March to May 10" (25 cm) apart in rows 24" (60 cm) apart.
Sow in 2" (5 cm) deep drills.
 

For Over-Wintering
Sow October to November 10" (25 cm) apart in rows 18" (45 cm) apart.
Sow in 2" (5 cm) deep drills.

Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil and sow seeds individually in early spring direct where they are to grow, 5cm deep and 10cm apart. Protect from mice and slugs. Support loosely with canes and string once they reach 15cm tall and pinch out the tops once pods have set to prevent blackfly.

Sow: February-March Harvest: June-July
 

Pick beans regularly to encourage further cropping.

Requires support. Provide poles or netting for plants to climb.

Suitable for the vegetable garden, allotments and containers.
Be prepared to water well and supplement feed with high-potash feed during season. Regular feeding is recommended.