Allotments 4 All

Some time back, I think someone mentioned red broadbeans. Are these easy to get hold of, and can they be planted soon. I fancy a bit of colour and novelty, since my family don't seem to share my love of broad beans.

My lot don't like Broadies either, but I just love them!  I found some called Red Epicure, so thought I would give them a whirl.  I got them in a store in North Devon....can't say I have seen them in my local nursery, but I bet one of the big seed companies will have them in their catalogue...wonder who mine were from....  They germinated within days - oh the joy of fresh seed - and are lovely strong stocky little plants.  I have a cloche on the allotment awaiting their arrival next week (weather permitting).  I guess they suffer all the same problems as regular broadies, which means I am going to have to protect them from the birds, voles and squirrels, but I love broadbeans so much..I love them young and small, I love them old and tough, so I am determined to give them one last chance!

Thanks, well I will just keep my eyes peeled locally, at all my normal seed havens, on the off chance.

To me, a plate of broad beans, moistened with a smooth cheese and very garlicky sauce - simply heaven !

Knowing my luck, the French will already have invented a dish like this ...

Ooh EJ, with such a loving description who could resist! Will keep an eye out for them next year. Will you post some pics when they fruit, pretty please ::)

I will keep an eye out also Curry in case I come across some.  And yes Supersprout, I will definately take photos...so long as our feathered and furry friends leave them alone!  ;D

Didn't I just see some on offer in the seedswap?

Yep - that was me.  I pm'ed those who expressed an interest above, and put the rest in the swap shop :)

Thanks everyone for your thoughts, my post was really just an 'off the cuff' comment, made when my mind was in 'free wander' mode  :D It is very satisfying to get such a rapid and warm response from everyone.