[lizzie1982]

Hello
I have planted 10 broad bean seeds and all have germinated and produced a plant. They are currently in my indoor pvc greenhouse and are nice and warm by the window.
I water them every couple of days and they seem to be growing well, reaching 12inches tall with lots of leaves on them.
My question is: Is it too soon to be planting outside at my allotment? I am in Preston, Lancashire and although the days are getting warmer, the wind is bitterly cold and at nights we still get frost (gritters were out two nights ago). At my allotment there is a hedge on the South side, but all three other sides are open.
I haven't got a greenhouse or shed yet (these need building). My neighbour Dave has got a greenhouse, but no heater, although I would buy him one if I'm allowed to use the greenhouse

[mumofstig]

You need to gradually harden them off...........put outside on mildish days and bring in at night gradually getting them used to longer outside.
They seem to be gowing rather quickly!

Can you explain why you have a pvc greenhouse indoors? Generally 'indoors' is warm enough without extra protection

[DD.]

I know mumofstig has replied, I was typing this as she did so, but I'll carry on anyway!

When you say indoor, do you mean as in indoor house and then they are in a greenhouse as well?

I'm sorry to say this, but it sounds like they've gone leggy with too much "kindness". Broad beans do not want to be too warm.

I sowed mine on 18th January and after hardening off, I'm about to put them out at 3" - 4" high.

You can try hardening them off, but I really do think they will be a go-goer and you'll be best to start again.

[lizzie1982]

I have a pvc greenhouse indoors as my house is north facing and my husband is too tight to put the heating on, so I thought i'd give them a 'helping hand' to start off (a giant propagator of sorts)
The greenhouse currently has no cover on as the plants are too tall for it.
I will start hardening them off tomorrow- I have to work out how to stop the dogs eating them whilst in my yard.
If they have gone 'leggy' then at least I have not wasted any money- they were free from The Southport Flower Show last September
I will let you know how i get on with them.
Thank you for your help and advice.