I only just read this one, and it surprised me how few people seem to be in favour. I lost all but about 6 winter before last, but apart from then they've always been well worth while. I grow four varieties, but unfortunately have no idea what they are. I've been saving the seed for several years, and one variety came from my mother who's been gone 11 years now. Anyway, first sowing is about now, second in Feb, then another in March and the last in April. Bumper crops this year, which can't be said for some of the other beans. I'm in Sheffield, on rather heavy soil. If the sun shines, I shall sow some tomorrow. Mine all go directly into the soil.