Broad Bean Pollination

Our Broad Beans are covered in flowers but there seems to be a lack of Bees around to pollinate them. I've only seen a couple of Bees in the last two weeks and a few butterflies pottering about.

I've read that they will self-pollinate but the yield will be much reduced (circa 30%) compared to having the insects helping out. I'm wondering whether we could put a tub of plants near them to try to attract the Bees, would that be sensible, and if so, what would be best ?

 

I think the bees will merrily come to the beans - but there may not be many bees around :(

Can;t do any harm to move all your flowering tubs etc. in that direction.

Any chance a local bee keeper could be persuaded to keep a hive there?

 

You could do the paint brush trick if you are worried and have the time