broad bean help

[toadie]

Hi all, I'm an accomplished gardener but new to this forum. I tried growing broad beans this year. I started them a little too early but once germinated looked ok. Now I have some blight issues. I removed 2 of the worst looking plants but now most of the flowers are covered in a mould? Any advice would be appreciated. The seeds are from a big box store rack (which may be part of the problem).

 

[Tetters]

Welcome to the forums @toadie We heard on our news just this afternoon that your weather conditions have been extraordinarily hot. If it has also been humid, this could very well be the cause of the mould and mildew forming on crops. When these conditions touch on cooler surfaces, it causes condensation which then makes perfect conditions for mould and mildew to form.
There's not a lot we can do about the weather

 

[toadie]

Thanks for the reply! It has been hot and humid. You are probably referring to the heatwave in British Columbia which has been unprecedented. I live in the area of southern Canada surrounded by the great lakes. It is hot and humid in the summer. Today was roughly 35 celsius plus oppressive humidity. I fight mildew constantly. I did spray with Bordo (copper mix). I guess i'm wondering if it is worthwhile to grow broad beans here or if there is a variety that is better suited to these conditions. My pole beans and snow peas are amazing. Cheers.

 

[Tetters]

Our weather conditions have also been different this year. I think as with most gardening we have to keep learning as we go - all part of the fun. That heatwave in British Columbia (I didn't catch that detail on TV) has brought temperatures in the mid to upper 40'sC so they said.
That's the kind of temperatures my kids experience in Queensland, Australia. I reckon that heat and humidity would kill me off - phew!!

 

[headfullofbees]

Could these blight issues be "Chocolate Spot"?
Broad bean chocolate spot - (notcutts.co.uk)
120716_006_Broad bean chocolate spot.jpg | Broad bean chocol… | Flickr

 

[Mike Allen]

Tetters. You have probably heard this statement before. If you can tolerate the British climate, then you will cope around the world. I believe it's due to our climate being moist, that does it.