[alysonh56]

Hello, I'm new to allotments and veg growing. I started some broad beans about a month ago under cloches. They've sprouted and I want to re-use the cloche. Am I right in thinking they won't be of interest to mice now they're up? Am I safe removing the cloches. I think my neighbour is growing them and his look okay - started earlier, but I haven't seen him in a few weeks to ask! Thanks

[Growster...]

You should be fine now, Alyson, but chuck a few slug pellets around as well, not too many, just enough!

Broad beans always look a bit sad around now, and while they whimper a bit, you'll see them get going pretty soon!

Nice timing, by the way!

[wrinkly1]

  broad beans are a good veg to start off with alyson.they are tough as old boots.  good luck. wrinkly1

[Salmo]

If you remove the cloches too soon crows sometimes pull them all out and leave them lying on the ground. As soon as they get a bit more robust they are OK to leave uncovered. The crows, in fact jackdaws on my plot, do not eat them, whether they are after the bean underneath or just hoping a nice juicy worm will be attached to the roots I am not sure.

[Goosegirl]

They are usually quite tough plants and you can remove the cloche as had been said as they don't need any extra warmth, but you could always rig up a bit of netting on hoops so any foragers can't get at them. 

[alysonh56]

Thank you all - I'll probably string up some old CDs to scare birds as well. (Saddens me to have to do so as a birder but at least it's not harmful!)

[Yorkshire Lass]

I thought my Broad Beans were looking a little sad and tiny this morning but this thread has given me hope I may have Broad beans to eat this season