How to Support Broad Bean Plants and Stop Them Falling Over – Complete UK Guide

Knowing how to support broad bean plants is essential if you want healthy, upright stems and a fantastic harvest of home-grown beans. Tall varieties can easily become top-heavy, especially when their pods develop, and strong winds can leave entire rows leaning or lying across the allotment.

Broad beans are one of my favourite vegetables to grow because they’re relatively straightforward to plant, tolerate cooler weather and produce lovely early crops.

But there’s one problem that nearly every broad bean grower encounters at some point.

The plants begin falling over!

You might have planted a lovely straight row during October or March.

Everything starts growing well.

The stems become taller, the leaves develop and the first flowers appear.

Then suddenly you head down to the allotment after a windy night and discover that your broad beans are leaning in every direction.

Sometimes a whole row looks as though it’s been flattened.

And once those long green pods start developing, the extra weight makes matters worse.

Here at Gardening with Ben, I always think it’s better to prepare plant supports before the vegetables actually need them.

Broad beans are a perfect example.

Taller varieties such as Aquadulce Claudia can reach approximately 1–1.5 metres, and those upright stems can be damaged by strong wind.

However, the good news is that supporting broad beans doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.

You don’t need an elaborate trellis.

You don’t need to tie every individual plant to its own cane.

And you don’t need to buy a completely new support system every year.

For many allotment gardeners, a few sturdy stakes and some garden string are all that’s required.

The Royal Horticultural Society recommends placing stakes around the corners of broad bean rows, adding further stakes approximately every 1.2 metres and running string around the plants at 30 cm height intervals.

This creates a simple framework that helps hold the stems upright as they grow.

In this complete UK guide, I’ll explain exactly how to support broad beans, the best materials to use and when to install supports.

We’ll also cover supporting Aquadulce Claudia, dwarf broad beans, raised beds, containers and double rows.

And if your plants have already fallen over after a storm, I’ll explain how to assess the damage and what you can do to help them recover.

Let’s get those broad beans standing tall!

Do Broad Bean Plants Need Support?

Most tall broad bean varieties benefit from support.

Although their stems are naturally upright, mature plants can become heavy, especially when they’re carrying flowers and pods.

Wind and rain can cause them to lean, bend or fall over.

Do All Broad Beans Need Staking?

Not necessarily.

Compact varieties such as The Sutton often remain relatively short and may support themselves, especially when grown in a block or double row.

Do Tall Broad Beans Need Stakes?

Usually, yes.

Aquadulce Claudia and other tall varieties are much easier to manage with a simple stakes-and-string framework.

What Happens If You Don’t Support Them?

Plants may lean over pathways, become tangled with neighbouring stems or suffer wind damage.

Will Fallen Broad Beans Still Grow?

Some will.

However, severely bent or broken stems may struggle to transport water and nutrients.

Can Broad Beans Stand Up Again Naturally?

Occasionally, slightly leaning plants can adjust their growth.

But badly flattened plants often need support.

What’s My Recommendation?

Install supports before the plants become tall and begin producing heavy pods.

Why Are My Broad Bean Plants Falling Over?

There are several possible reasons.

It’s important to recognise the cause before attempting to fix the problem.

1. Strong Wind

Wind is one of the most common causes of broad beans falling over.

Tall stems act like sails, especially once they’re covered in foliage.

2. Heavy Pods

As the broad beans develop, the weight of the pods increases.

3. Rain-Soaked Foliage

Wet leaves and stems can add considerable weight.

4. Plants Growing Too Tall

Some varieties naturally reach well over a metre.

5. Weak Stems

Plants grown in poor light or overcrowded conditions may develop weaker growth.

6. Root Problems

Waterlogged soil can damage roots, making plants less stable.

7. Loose Soil

Plants that haven’t established properly may lean more easily.

8. Lack of Supports

The most straightforward reason is simply not giving tall plants something to lean against.

9. Severe Disease

Some diseases can damage stems or roots and cause collapse.

10. Storm Damage

A sudden period of strong wind can flatten plants that looked perfectly healthy the previous day.

Gardening with Ben tip: If broad beans suddenly fall over, don’t assume it’s only the wind. Check that the stems haven’t rotted and that the soil isn’t waterlogged.

What Is the Best Way to Support Broad Beans?

For most allotment gardeners, the simplest method is sturdy stakes and horizontal garden string.

This is the technique recommended by the RHS.

Instead of attaching each plant to a separate cane, you create a framework around the growing row.

The string forms a barrier that stops stems spreading too far outwards.

Why Is This Method Useful?

It’s inexpensive.

It’s easy to install.

It works with single and double rows.

And it allows plants to develop naturally without being tied tightly.

What Materials Do You Need?

Strong wooden stakes or suitable bamboo canes.

Garden string or soft twine.

A mallet if necessary.

Scissors.

A tape measure.

How Many Stakes Are Required?

It depends on the length of your row.

Use stakes at the corners and approximately every 1.2 metres along longer rows.

How High Should the Supports Be?

Tall enough to support the expected mature growth, with enough of each stake firmly buried in the ground.

Should the String Be Tight?

It should be secure without cutting into the plants.

Can You Reuse the Stakes?

Yes, if they’re still strong and in good condition.

How to Support Broad Beans With Stakes and String – Step by Step

Here’s how I’d create a straightforward support framework on the allotment.

Step 1: Check Your Broad Bean Variety

Work out whether you’re growing a tall cultivar or a dwarf variety.

Step 2: Estimate the Mature Height

Aquadulce Claudia may reach around 1–1.5 metres.

Step 3: Measure Your Growing Row

This will help you decide how many stakes to use.

Step 4: Choose Strong Stakes

Use material that can withstand wind and the weight of mature plants.

Step 5: Place Stakes at the Ends

Position them just outside the plants, taking care not to damage roots.

Step 6: Add More Stakes Along the Row

The RHS suggests approximately every 1.2 metres.

Step 7: Push the Stakes Securely Into the Ground

Make sure they don’t wobble.

Step 8: Attach the First Length of String

Position the first level at approximately 30 cm above the soil.

Step 9: Run String Around the Outside

Create a surrounding boundary that gently supports the plants.

Step 10: Secure the String to Each Stake

Tie it firmly.

Step 11: Add a Second Level

As the plants become taller, add another level approximately 30 cm above the first.

Step 12: Continue Building the Framework

Add additional horizontal string levels as the stems grow.

Step 13: Check for Trapped Foliage

Make sure stems aren’t badly twisted or squeezed.

Step 14: Reposition Leaning Stems Carefully

Guide them inside the support framework.

Step 15: Inspect After Windy Weather

Tighten loose string and replace damaged stakes.

This simple system is effective because it supports the entire crop rather than individual plants.

When Should You Support Broad Beans?

One of the most common mistakes is leaving support until the plants have already started falling over.

Should You Put Stakes in When You Sow?

You can mark out the positions early, although installing the complete framework isn’t always necessary immediately.

What About Young Seedlings?

Small seedlings generally don’t require substantial support.

When Do Plants Usually Need Help?

As they begin developing height and producing more foliage.

Should You Wait Until Flowering?

Ideally not if the plants are already tall and exposed.

Can You Install Supports During Spring?

Yes.

This is a particularly useful time to check overwintered broad beans.

What About Autumn-Sown Broad Beans?

Prepare supports before their strong spring growth.

Is Early Installation Better?

Usually, because it reduces the risk of damaging mature stems and roots while working around the crop.

How to Support Aquadulce Claudia Broad Beans

Aquadulce Claudia is a popular hardy variety for autumn sowing.

It can grow to approximately 1–1.5 metres, which makes proper support particularly important.

Does Aquadulce Claudia Always Fall Over?

No.

However, its tall stems are vulnerable in exposed areas.

What’s the Best Support?

Stakes and string around the growing rows.

Should You Support the Plants in Winter?

Young plants may not need substantial support, but exposed winter sites can benefit from suitable protection.

When Should You Install the Main Framework?

Before the plants become tall in spring.

How High Should the String Go?

Add support levels at approximately 30 cm intervals, according to plant height.

Can You Use Bamboo Canes?

Yes, provided they’re sufficiently strong.

Should You Tie Each Aquadulce Claudia Plant Separately?

Not usually necessary.

What’s My Recommendation?

For Aquadulce Claudia, I’d build a strong perimeter framework around a double row before the plants begin flowering heavily.

Do Dwarf Broad Beans Need Support?

Dwarf broad beans are much shorter than traditional tall varieties.

The Sutton is one of the best-known examples.

How Tall Does The Sutton Grow?

Usually around 50 cm or less.

Will Dwarf Plants Support Themselves?

Often, especially when planted in groups.

What Does the RHS Recommend?

Small or dwarf broad beans generally support each other, with twiggy sticks added if needed.

What Are Twiggy Sticks?

Small branching sticks pushed into the soil between plants.

Are They Better Than Tall Bamboo Canes?

They’re often sufficient for compact plants.

Do Dwarf Broad Beans Need String?

Not always.

What About Windy Sites?

Extra support may still be worthwhile.

Can The Sutton Grow Without Stakes?

Yes, depending on conditions.

Supporting Broad Beans in Double Rows

Double-row planting is particularly useful for broad beans.

The plants grow in two parallel rows close together.

Why Do Gardeners Use Double Rows?

The plants can provide some mutual support.

How Far Apart Are the Rows?

The RHS recommends approximately 23 cm between the two rows.

How Much Space Between Pairs?

Approximately 60 cm.

How Do You Install Supports?

Place stakes around the outer corners of the paired rows.

Add further stakes along longer sections.

Where Does the String Go?

Around the outside of both rows.

Should You Thread String Between Every Plant?

No.

Are Double Rows Better in Wind?

They can provide some shelter, but strong supports are still important for tall varieties.

Can You Stagger the Plants?

Yes.

A staggered or zigzag layout can work well.

Supporting Broad Beans in Single Rows

Single rows can also be supported effectively.

Do You Need Stakes on Both Sides?

A practical method is to create a string barrier on each side of the row.

Where Should the Stakes Go?

At the ends and at intervals along the row.

Can One String Hold the Plants?

A single low string may help young plants, but taller broad beans often require several levels.

What if Stems Lean Outwards?

Guide them gently back between the strings if they haven’t been damaged.

Should You Tie Plants Individually?

Only where a particular stem needs extra assistance.

Can You Use a Fence?

A nearby fence may provide some shelter, but the plants still need suitable support if they grow tall.

Can You Support Broad Beans With Bamboo Canes?

Yes.

Bamboo canes are a popular option because they’re readily available and easy to position.

Do You Need One Cane Per Plant?

No.

What’s the Best Arrangement?

Place strong canes around the outer edges of the growing area and connect them with string.

How Tall Should the Canes Be?

Choose canes that remain high enough after they’re pushed securely into the soil.

Can Thin Canes Snap?

Yes, particularly in severe weather.

Should You Use Thicker Canes?

Thicker, strong canes may be preferable on exposed allotments.

Can You Tie Cane Tops Together?

You can create various support structures, but broad beans don’t require the tall climbing frames used for runner beans.

Are Bamboo Canes Reusable?

Yes, while they remain sound.

Should You Check Them Every Year?

Definitely.

Weathered bamboo may split or become weak.

Can You Support Broad Beans With Wooden Stakes?

Wooden stakes are another excellent option.

Why Choose Wood?

Sturdy stakes can support heavy crops and be reused over several years.

Can You Use Reclaimed Timber?

Yes, if it’s safe, free from protruding nails and suitable for garden use.

Should You Use Treated Timber?

Use materials appropriate for vegetable-growing areas and follow relevant safety guidance.

How Deep Should Stakes Go?

Deep enough to remain secure against wind and crop weight.

Exact depth depends on stake length, soil and exposure.

Is a Mallet Useful?

Yes, for installing sturdy stakes carefully.

Can You Use Stakes Around Raised Beds?

Absolutely.

Can You Attach String to Timber?

Yes.

You can tie it directly or use suitable fixings.

What’s My Recommendation?

For a very exposed allotment, strong wooden corner stakes with several levels of string are a practical option.

Can You Use Netting to Support Broad Beans?

Some gardeners prefer netting or horizontal support grids.

These can work when installed safely.

Can Plastic Netting Work?

It may provide support, but loose plastic netting can become tangled, difficult to remove and create waste.

What About Reusable Mesh?

Sturdy reusable mesh may be more manageable.

Can You Use Natural Twine?

Yes.

Is String Easier Than Netting?

For many gardeners, yes.

Could Netting Damage Stems?

Tightly fitted or rough netting may rub against foliage.

Is Netting Necessary?

No.

A simple stakes-and-string arrangement is usually enough.

Supporting Broad Beans in Raised Beds

Raised beds are particularly convenient for installing neat support frameworks.

Where Should the Stakes Go?

Around the corners or edges of the planted area.

Do You Need to Protect the Bed Edging?

Yes.

Avoid damaging timber or other structures when inserting stakes.

Can You Fix Stakes Outside the Bed?

Yes, provided they’re secure.

What if the Bed Is Small?

A compact framework may be sufficient.

Does The Sutton Need a Large Frame?

Usually not.

What About Aquadulce Claudia?

A taller framework is advisable.

Should You Leave Space for Harvesting?

Definitely.

Make sure you can reach the pods without stepping into the bed.

What About Narrow Raised Beds?

You may be able to support the entire row using stakes at either end and additional stakes where necessary.

Supporting Broad Beans in Pots and Containers

Broad beans growing in large patio pots may also need support.

Are Dwarf Varieties Better for Containers?

Generally, yes.

Do Pots Need Heavy Stakes?

Not always.

Can You Use Short Bamboo Canes?

Yes.

What About Twiggy Branches?

They’re useful for compact plants.

Could the Pot Tip Over?

Yes, especially if tall plants become top-heavy.

How Can You Prevent This?

Use a stable container and choose a sheltered location.

Should You Tie Canes to the Pot?

Only if the fixing is secure and won’t damage the container.

Can You Grow Aquadulce Claudia in a Pot?

Yes, in a sufficiently large, stable container, but its height makes it less convenient than a dwarf variety.

What’s My Recommendation?

Use The Sutton for patio pots and add simple twiggy support if the plants begin leaning.

How to Protect Broad Beans From Strong Wind

Wind is a particular challenge on open allotments.

Choose a Sheltered Position

Where possible, plant broad beans in an area protected from the strongest prevailing winds.

Install Supports Early

Don’t wait for the first major storm.

Use Strong Stakes

Weak supports may collapse along with the plants.

Check the String

Tighten or replace loose sections.

Avoid Excessive Crowding

Crowding isn’t a substitute for proper support.

Consider a Windbreak

A permeable windbreak can reduce wind speed without creating the turbulence that may occur behind a completely solid barrier.

Secure Covers

Poorly attached fleece can flap and damage plants.

Inspect After Storms

Check for broken stems and loosened supports.

Should You Plant Tall Varieties in Exposed Areas?

You can, but dwarf varieties may be easier to manage.

What to Do if Broad Beans Have Already Fallen Over

If you visit your allotment and discover broad beans lying across the bed, don’t immediately remove them.

Some plants can recover.

Step 1: Inspect the Stems

Look for snapping, crushing or rot.

Step 2: Check the Roots

Are the plants still firmly rooted?

Step 3: Examine the Soil

Waterlogging may have contributed to the collapse.

Step 4: Lift Plants Carefully

Gently move intact stems towards an upright position.

Step 5: Avoid Forcing Sharp Bends

A stem that has become stiff or damaged may snap if pulled too quickly.

Step 6: Install Strong Stakes

Position them around the crop.

Step 7: Add Support String

Hold plants gently inside the framework.

Step 8: Leave Space Around the Stems

Avoid tight knots that cut into the growth.

Step 9: Remove Badly Broken Material

Where necessary, use clean secateurs to remove severely snapped stems.

Step 10: Monitor the Plants

Look for new growth, wilting or further collapse.

Can Fallen Broad Beans Still Produce Beans?

Yes, if their roots and productive stems remain healthy.

What if the Whole Plant Has Uprooted?

Recovery is less certain, particularly if the roots have been badly damaged.

Gardening with Ben tip: If your broad beans fall after strong wind but the stems aren’t broken, I’d try supporting them before giving up on the crop.

Can You Save a Snapped Broad Bean Stem?

This depends on how badly it’s damaged.

What if the Stem Is Only Bent?

It may continue functioning if the internal tissues remain intact.

What if It’s Completely Snapped?

A completely broken stem is unlikely to rejoin successfully.

Should You Tape the Stem?

Temporary splinting may help some partially damaged stems, but it isn’t a guaranteed repair and may not be worthwhile for badly broken tissue.

Can You Remove the Broken Section?

Yes, with clean secateurs.

Will the Plant Regrow?

It may produce further growth from healthy lower parts, depending on its development stage.

Can the Remaining Pods Mature?

Some may, if the supporting tissues remain healthy.

Should You Feed the Plant to Help?

Not automatically.

What’s Most Important?

Healthy roots, sufficient moisture and avoiding further damage.

Why Are My Broad Beans Falling Over Even With Supports?

Sometimes plants continue leaning despite having stakes.

The Stakes Are Too Weak

They may bend or loosen.

The Stakes Aren’t Deep Enough

Wind can pull them out of the soil.

The String Is Too Low

Tall stems may fall above the support level.

There Are Too Few Support Levels

A single string around the base isn’t enough for a tall crop.

The Plants Are Too Tall

Choose stronger supports or a shorter variety next time.

The Soil Is Waterlogged

Root damage can cause instability.

The Stems Are Diseased

Rotting stems may collapse even when surrounded by string.

What Should You Do?

Identify the cause, reinforce the framework and remove severely damaged material where necessary.

Can Pinching Out Broad Bean Tops Stop Them Falling Over?

Pinching out is sometimes recommended for broad beans, but its main purpose isn’t structural support.

The RHS recommends removing soft shoot tips once the lowest flowers have formed small pods.

Will Pinching Make Plants Shorter?

Removing the growing point can limit additional extension from that shoot.

Will It Replace Stakes?

No.

Does It Help With Blackfly?

Removing tender tips may remove aphid colonies, but it doesn’t reliably prevent blackfly.

Should You Pinch Very Young Plants?

Not as a routine measure.

When Should You Do It?

Once the lowest flowers have formed small pods, if appropriate.

Can You Eat the Tips?

Young healthy broad bean tips can be cooked.

What’s My Recommendation?

Use proper physical support for tall plants rather than relying on pinching alone.

Do Broad Beans Need Support During Winter?

Autumn-sown broad beans often remain relatively small through winter.

Do November Seedlings Need Stakes?

Usually not immediately.

What About December?

Small plants may need little support.

Can Winter Wind Cause Damage?

Yes.

Should You Build the Whole Framework in October?

You can prepare the supports early, particularly on exposed sites.

When Does Support Become Most Important?

As growth accelerates in spring.

Do Frozen Plants Break Easily?

Frozen or frost-damaged tissues may be more vulnerable to handling damage.

Should You Adjust Supports During Frost?

Avoid unnecessary bending of frozen stems.

What’s My Recommendation?

Check winter plants after storms and build stronger support before spring growth becomes vigorous.

Broad Bean Support Mistakes to Avoid

1. Waiting Until Plants Have Fallen Over

Prepare supports before the problem develops.

2. Using Very Thin Stakes

Weak supports may snap.

3. Pushing Stakes Into the Ground Too Shallowly

They need to remain secure.

4. Using Only One Low String

Tall plants may flop above it.

5. Pulling Stems Too Tight

String can rub or damage plant tissue.

6. Ignoring Plant Height

Aquadulce Claudia needs more support than The Sutton.

7. Forgetting Strong Winds

Open allotments may need more robust frameworks.

8. Overcrowding to Create Artificial Support

Dense planting isn’t a replacement for stakes.

9. Failing to Check After Storms

Loose string and tilted stakes should be repaired promptly.

10. Assuming Every Leaning Plant Is Wind-Damaged

Check roots and stems for rot or disease.

Month-by-Month Broad Bean Support Calendar

Month	Main support job
January	Check winter storm damage
February	Inspect overwintered plants and prepare stakes
March	Install support around growing crops
April	Add further string levels as plants grow
May	Reinforce supports before pods become heavy
June	Maintain supports while harvesting
July	Remove supports as crops finish
August	Clean and store reusable stakes
September	Inspect materials before autumn sowing
October	Plan support positions for hardy varieties
November	Check young autumn-sown plants
December	Inspect after strong wind and heavy rain

Frequently Asked Questions About Supporting Broad Beans

Do broad bean plants need support?

Most tall varieties benefit from staking, while some dwarf varieties can support themselves.

What is the best way to support broad beans?

Stakes and garden string around the rows are a straightforward, effective method.

How do you stop broad beans falling over?

Install sturdy stakes and several horizontal support strings before the plants become top-heavy.

Why are my broad beans falling over?

Wind, heavy pods, inadequate support, weak stems or root problems may be involved.

How far apart should broad bean stakes be?

The RHS recommends additional stakes approximately every 1.2 metres along rows.

How far apart should the support strings be?

Approximately 30 cm vertically.

Can you use bamboo canes for broad beans?

Yes, provided they’re strong and securely installed.

Are wooden stakes better than bamboo canes?

Both work. Choose according to strength, exposure and convenience.

Do you need one cane per broad bean plant?

No. Perimeter supports are usually sufficient.

Do Aquadulce Claudia broad beans need support?

Yes, they generally benefit because they can grow approximately 1–1.5 metres tall.

Does The Sutton need support?

Often very little, although twiggy sticks may help.

Do dwarf broad beans need stakes?

Not always.

When should you stake broad beans?

Before tall plants begin leaning or carrying heavy pods.

Can you support broad beans after they’ve fallen over?

Yes, if the stems and roots remain reasonably intact.

Can fallen broad beans recover?

Some can, particularly when stems haven’t snapped.

Can a snapped broad bean stem be repaired?

Partially damaged stems may occasionally recover with support, but fully severed stems generally won’t rejoin.

Will broad beans produce pods if they’re leaning?

They can, as long as they remain healthy.

Should you tie broad beans individually?

Usually not necessary when using a perimeter framework.

Can you use string around double rows?

Yes.

Are double rows better for supporting broad beans?

They can provide mutual support, but taller varieties still benefit from stakes.

How far apart should double rows be?

About 23 cm between the paired rows and 60 cm between pairs.

Can broad beans support one another?

Somewhat, particularly compact varieties grown in blocks.

Can you use netting to support broad beans?

Yes, although a simple stakes-and-string system is often easier.

Can you use chicken wire?

A secure mesh framework may provide support, but avoid sharp edges and arrangements that make harvesting difficult.

Do broad beans need a trellis?

Not normally.

Can broad beans climb like runner beans?

No. Broad beans grow upright rather than climbing with twining stems.

Do broad beans need support in raised beds?

Tall varieties usually do.

Do pot-grown broad beans need support?

Sometimes, especially in windy conditions.

Can strong winds kill broad beans?

Severe damage to stems or roots can kill plants.

Should you support broad beans in October?

You can prepare supports, although young seedlings may not need the full framework immediately.

When do overwintered broad beans need support?

Usually as they begin stronger spring growth.

Can you pinch broad beans to stop them getting tall?

Pinching removes soft growing tips but doesn’t replace physical support.

When should you pinch out broad bean tips?

When the lowest flowers have developed small pods.

Does pinching prevent blackfly?

Not reliably.

Why are my broad beans falling over after rain?

Wet foliage, soft ground, wind and heavy pods may all contribute.

Can waterlogging make broad beans collapse?

Yes, because damaged roots may no longer support healthy stems.

Should you remove broken stems?

Severely broken or rotting stems can be removed with clean secateurs.

Can you reuse broad bean supports?

Yes, if they’re cleaned, sound and stored properly.

What’s the cheapest broad bean support?

Reusable stakes and garden string are among the simplest low-cost approaches.

What’s the best broad bean support for a windy allotment?

Strong, deeply secured stakes with multiple horizontal string levels.

Are broad beans difficult to support?

No. A simple framework usually takes little maintenance once installed properly.

Final Thoughts: Keeping Broad Bean Plants Upright

Supporting broad beans is one of those simple allotment jobs that can make a big difference to your harvest.

And the good news is that it doesn’t have to be complicated.

If you’re growing tall varieties such as Aquadulce Claudia, I’d recommend using sturdy stakes and garden string.

Place supports at the corners of your rows.

Add extra stakes along longer sections.

And run string around the outside of the plants at approximately 30 cm height intervals.

As your broad beans grow taller, add more levels.

That way, the support develops alongside the crop.

If you’re growing dwarf varieties such as The Sutton, you may need very little additional support.

A few twiggy sticks can be enough in sheltered conditions.

But remember that strong winds can still damage compact plants, especially when they are carrying pods.

One thing I’d particularly encourage gardeners to do is install supports before the plants start falling over.

It’s much easier to keep healthy plants upright than to untangle an entire row after a storm.

However, if your broad beans have already been flattened by wind, don’t give up immediately.

Check whether the stems are broken.

Look at the roots.

And gently support healthy plants where possible.

You may still get a worthwhile harvest.

If you’re growing on an exposed allotment, choose strong materials and check your supports after particularly windy weather.

And don’t forget that your growing conditions matter too.

Waterlogged soil can weaken the roots.

Overcrowded plants may develop poor airflow.

And excessive feeding isn’t a substitute for proper support.

With a little preparation, your broad beans should have the support they need to grow, flower and produce those lovely green pods.

And there’s nothing better than harvesting fresh broad beans from healthy, upright plants!

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!