🫘 Borlotti Bean 'Firetongue'

Sowing window (UK)	April to June
Minimum soil temperature	10°C at seed depth
Sowing depth	5 cm
Spacing	60 cm apart
Days to germination	10 days
Days to harvest	90 days
Sowing method	Direct sow outdoors
Frost hardy	No
Sun	full-sun
Watering	moderate
Plant family	Leguminosae

When should I sow Borlotti Bean 'Firetongue' in the UK?

In the UK, sow Borlotti Bean 'Firetongue' from April to June. It is normally sown direct outdoors. Wait until the soil has reached 10°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - borlotti bean will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Borlotti Bean 'Firetongue' need to germinate?

Borlotti Bean 'Firetongue' needs a minimum soil temperature of 10°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Borlotti Bean 'Firetongue'?

For Borlotti Bean 'Firetongue', sow it 5cm deep and space plants 60cm apart.

How long does Borlotti Bean 'Firetongue' take to grow?

Borlotti Bean 'Firetongue' takes roughly 90 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 10 days.

Is Borlotti Bean 'Firetongue' frost hardy?

No. Borlotti Bean 'Firetongue' is not frost hardy. Do not put it outside until the risk of frost has passed in your area, and be ready to fleece it if a late frost is forecast.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.