Broad Bean Bunyards Exhibition Seeds

 

Broad Bean Bunyards Exhibition (Vicia faba L.) is a traditional, well-loved variety that has been grown in British and Irish gardens for generations.

 

It is prized for its heavy yields of long pods, each filled with large, succulent beans of excellent flavour.

 

This heritage variety is hardy, reliable, and well suited for early sowings. The beans have a rich, creamy taste whether eaten fresh, blanched and frozen, or dried for storage.

 

Strong, upright plants reach up to 1.2 metres tall, making them ideal for allotments and larger gardens where a dependable crop is essential.

 

Seed Qty: Approx. 25 seeds

 

Sow: February – May (outdoors) or October – November (autumn sowing in mild areas)

Germination: 7–14 days

Soil Type: Fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter; neutral pH preferred

Height/Spread: 100 – 120 cm tall, 30 – 40 cm spread

Harvesting: June – August

Companion Plants: Potatoes, Lettuce, Brassicas

Avoid Planting With: Onions, Garlic

 

Sowing Instructions

 

For an early crop, sow seeds directly outdoors from February onwards, or in autumn (October–November) in mild regions for overwintering. Plant seeds 5 cm deep and 20 cm apart in double rows spaced 25 cm apart. Allow at least 60 cm between double rows for easy access.

 

Support tall plants with canes and string if exposed to strong winds. Pinch out the growing tips once pods begin to set to deter blackfly and encourage heavier pod production. Keep plants well-watered, especially during flowering and pod development.

 

Harvest regularly when pods are young and beans are tender for the best flavour. Larger, mature beans can be left to dry for later use.

 

Broad Bean Bunyards Exhibition is a time-tested, heritage variety that provides reliable crops of delicious, creamy beans – perfect for traditional kitchen gardens and allotments.