Broad bean covers

[amanda21]

I have some broad bean plants that are now about 8-10" high.  They have been grown under a mesh cloche which I now need to protect my new sown peas.  Will the broad beans be ok now just left open to the wildlife (pigeons/mice especially!) or should I protect with something else?
Thanks

[amanda21]

[sawfish]

Broad beans will be absolutely fine especially considering where you are, they're tough as old boots

[Tee Gee]

They should be OK until they start podding then the birds will have another go at them in particulars Jays & Magpies.

Many a time I have found bean pods opened like a zip fastener i.e. the birds peck up the edge of the pod to expose the beans inside.

So keep a look out for these tell tale signs then net up again if necessary.

Your next problem might well be 'black fly'

I allow five sets of flowers to form then I remove the top of the plant, I have often found that if I go for a sixth set of flowers I get a black fly problem.

Meaning I might get a few less beans but I find that those I get are healthy and well filled which is better than (in my book) more partially filled soft beans.

Each to their own!!

[amanda21]

Thanks I feel more confident leaving them uncovered now.  Will remember the tip re 5 lots of flowers - cheers! :)

[sawfish]

I'm lucky in the respect that this far north I dont get black fly