BROAD BEANS

Hawke's Bay Herald-Tribune, Issue 165, 30 July 1937, Page 14

BROAD BEANS

Origin.- — The broad bean (Vicaa Faber) is a hardy annual first grown by the early Egyptians and in some parts of Europe in preliistoric times. it is now iargely cilltivated and grown in almost every country of the world. Sowing Seed. — Broad beans are best sown in drills 2£ feet apart and about 3 inches deep. Set the seeds singly 6 mches to 8 inches apart in the drills and ccver with soil, firming the ground. lf double drills are preferred set the seeds 10 inches apart and not less than 3 feet between the rows. Soil is Important. — The bean has a long tapering root . extending downvvards to a considerable depth, therefore shallow soils are not well suited for this crop. Deep digging or double trenclung is advisable, and rotted vegetable matter worked into the soil. In ground that is damp and holds the moisture, this crop should be sown out m the open where the maximum amount of sun penetrates. Manures. — All manures should be applied when the plants are young as the tender. beans are gathering at an early stage. Lime, super, bonedust and potash will all prove highly beneficial to beang on soil that has been long under cultivation and especially is a generous supply of 'organic manure has been previously used. ' Moulding Up. — When. plants are about 6 inches to 8 inches high they should be earthed up to keep them steady and firm in the ground. In windy situations stakes may be driv'en •n every 9 fget and striugs run along the rccws to steady them. When the fruit has set the tops may be pinched out to check the upward growth and heip to swell the pods. For small gardens the best variety for cultivation is early long pod.