Hi, why are the small pods on my broad beans turning black and dropping off? The plants look very healthy with no bugs to be seen. Thanks.

Hi Susan, this is likely caused by incomplete pollination. Broad beans will self pollinate and are cross pollinated by insects, bees and bumble bees. If the bees are not working due to wet or windy weather, pollination of flowers will be incomplete. Pick off the black pods and more flowers will be produced, with warmer sunnier weather they will be fully pollinated and you will be eating fresh tender broad beans in no time. Lianne.