Vegetable
New

• Crops in : August onwards

Description

After many years of selling Soya Bean Ustie, T&M is superseding this variety with Soya Bean Elena, as recent trials have shown this is now the most reliable 100% GM free Soya Bean for British and Northern European climates. Soya Bean Elena has a more even germination, better standing ability and with earlier and higher yields.

The minute flowers are self pollinating and form most of the small, hairy pods at the top of the plant. Pods of Soya Bean Elena remain weatherproof throughout the autumn, and plants are virtually pest and disease free.

Soya plants are unusual because the leaves feed the pods, then the leaves fall off when the crop is ready, often leaving just brown stems with lots of hanging pods from late September. Pods of Soya Bean Elena remain weatherproof throughout the autumn, and plants are virtually pest and disease free so ideal for organic gardeners.

Sowing Instructions

Sow seeds 4cm (1in) deep in 7.5cm (3in) pots or trays of good, free-draining seed compost. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a polythene bag and place at 18-20C (64-68F) until after germination which takes 7-10 days.
Seeds can also be sown direct outdoors but it is essential the soil has warmed, sow 15cm (6in) apart, 4cm (1in) deep and in rows 45cm (18in) apart.

Growing Instructions

Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions a few days before planting out after all risk of frost and in warm soil. Hoe regularly and keep well watered, particularly as pods are setting.

Aftercare

Prefers well-drained, moist rich soil. Hoe regularly and keep well watered, particularly as pods are setting.

Kitchen Notes

Harvested beans must be brought to the boil to destroy inhibitors for protein ingestion. Younger pods can be brought to the boil, seasoned, and the beans popped out as a tasty edamame snack.

Caution