Vegetable

• Crops in : June onwards

Description

(White Seeded). One of the best, smaller, slender-podded varieties, gaining in popularity for its early setting of 'mange-tout pods' which can be picked young, just before the beans form. Broad Bean Stereo is delicious raw, or steamed and eaten whole. Pick regularly for highest yields. Compact, upright habit, ideal for containers. Broad Bean Stereo can also be grown as traditional pods. Height: 90cm (36 inches).

Sowing Instructions

Ideally sow seeds in double rows, 4cm (1¼in) deep in well prepared soil, 20-23cm (8-9in) apart both in the row and between each row. Allow at least 60cm (24in) between each double row. Germination takes about 10 days.

Growing Instructions

Support the plants as they grow by placing a cane or stout stick at each corner and tying in with string, especially in windy sites. Plants in containers may also need support.

Aftercare

Keep well watered especially when flowering and as pods set. Pinch out growing tip once pods have set to deter blackfly. Pick regularly to promote further pod production.

Nutritional Information

Freshly picked small, tender broad beans are packed full of vitamins A,C & E, and also a good source of protein and fibre.

Kitchen Notes

Steam the 'mangetout pods' with 'mangetout peas', add just a sliver of butter.