Vegetable Seeds - A - E

Broad Bean Monica is probably the earliest variety of broad bean seeds to produce a crop from a spring sowing. Monica produces virorous, high yielding plants, with 5-6 very large, succulent beans in 'hang down' pods. They are an excellent source of vitamin B1, folate and fibre.

Sow Outdoors

Sow outdoors where they are to crop, 5cm (2") deep directly into finely prepared soil which has already been watered. To make the best use of space sow beans 23cm (9") apart in a wide row, in a zig zag pattern leaving a space of 60cm (2') between each row. Seedlings usually appear in 10-18 days. Early sowings benefit from cloche protection. Water well until plants are established. Successional sowings will ensure a continuous supply and longer harvest of broad beans.

Sow Indoors

Sow 2.5cm (1") deep into individual plant pots or multi-cell trays filled with compost. Water well and place in a warm position. A temperature of 15-20C (60-68F) is ideal. Gradually accustom plants to outside conditions (avoid frosts), before planting out out 23cm (9") apart.

Timings

Sow Indoors: February to April.

Sow Outdoors: February to May.

Plant Out: April to May.

Harvest: June to August.

Average Contents: 45 seeds.

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