Get into gardening

Peas and beans taste best when you know that you've nurtured, cared for and grown them yourself. Not only is it fun, but it's quick, easy and cheap too.

Why not try these three simple projects…

When to plant?

Peas: March – June
(Some varieties can be planted between Feb – March, check your packet.)

Beans: May – July

When to harvest?

Peas: May – October
Beans: July – October

Where to plant?

Soil bed or large pot in full sun and protected from the wind.

What to do:

Firstly, you'll need to prepare the soil in the area you have chosen. To do this, add around 1/3 compost to 2/3 soil, then turn with a garden fork.

Your plants will need a support in order to grow. This can be made using bamboo canes in straight lines, about 15cm apart. You'll need another stick along the top to keep them stable.

Runner beans need a wigwam or a double row of canes.

Now plant two seeds, about 4cm deep against each support you've made and then give them a good drink of water. Keep seeds from getting thirsty by watering around twice a week. They may need to be watered more in hot weather, if they're in containers or once flowering begins.

Your peas will be ready to pick from March and your beans in July. Pick the pods regularly whilst they are still young, starting from the bottom of the plant.