broad beans

Hi

Mywife asked me today does one pinch off the top off the broad beans to stop them growing to high or should one just leave them grow.

 

Golfer, it`s down to personal choice really. The reason why people pinch out the top growth is, supposedly, to prevent blackfly.

 

I did this last year as I had some blackfly starting. I don't think it made any difference to the crop. You can eat the tips either cooked or in salad [obviously not if they have greenfly!], I also give mine to the guinea pigs.

 

I let mine grow to five sets of flowers.

In the past I have tried six/seven sets and been ravaged by blackfly.

Another benefit I find is the quality & quantity is better i.e. the pods are fuller and longer.

I suppose there must be a limit as to what a plant can sustain! I think I have it about right!

 

Thanks for you information