Thompson & Morgan Broad Bean Robin Hood - 1 Seed Packet (35 Seeds)

You can direct sow seeds from February under cloches, or from March to April. For an even earlier crop, sow outdoors under cloches from early autumn to late winter.

The 'Robin Hood' variety is compact, reaching about 35cm in height and 25cm in spread. Plant in double rows 23cm apart with 60cm between rows, and sow seeds 23cm apart within the rows.

Yes, its compact and neat habit makes it perfect for patio containers and smaller vegetable gardens.

They thrive in rich, fertile, well-manured soil and require full sun exposure.

Pinching out the growing tips after the first pods have set is a recommended method to deter blackfly and encourage more pod development.

Harvest the beans when the pods are well-filled and the seeds inside are soft and plump.

Yes, the beans from this variety freeze well without discoloration, making them convenient for later use.

Ensure seeds are sown at the correct depth (5cm) in warm soil. Check for adequate moisture; the soil should be consistently damp but not waterlogged. Consider sowing a few extra seeds to account for non-viable ones.

This could indicate insufficient watering or poor soil quality. Ensure consistent watering, especially during dry periods. Amend the soil with well-rotted manure before planting to improve fertility and water retention.

Pinch out the growing tips of the plants once the first pods have set. This is a key preventative measure. You can also try washing infested areas with a strong jet of water or using insecticidal soap if the problem persists.

Ensure consistent watering and adequate sunlight. The plant may also need additional nutrients; a balanced liquid feed can be applied during the growing season if necessary.