Broad Bean Masterpiece Green Longpod (Vicia faba)
Arguably the best green-seeded variety, growing well in most conditions, and producing good pod lengths with up to 7 beans per pod. Broad Bean 'Masterpiece Green Longpod' has remarkable flavour and table qualities. This superb RHS AGM variety, pods contain six or seven large juicy beans which are also excellent for freezing.
- Height: 90cm (35"). Spread: 45cm (18").
- 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.
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.