The broad bean Aquadulce Claudia is a variety that has to be sown in the Winter and it was recommended to me by a friend. It gives an early crop which is less affected by black bean aphid. This was a serious problem with the spring sown variety Sutton which I’ve always grown. Even though the Sutton tops were pinched out. Not all the Aquadulce - sown 27th October - came up (81.5% germination rate) so a second sowing was necessary. I’ve sown two double rows.

Aquadulce broad beans emerge during the winter months. They stay pretty much like those above till the weather starts to warm up in the spring. The failed germination can clearly be seen. I think it’s best to grow about 20% extra in 3-4” pots to plant out later. All could be planted in pots if you have room but in this instance you would need 80 pots!

This shot shows just how early this variety is. Heavy cropping even before the potatoes (left) really get going. The specimen bottom left has had the top taken out after the flowers have stopped forming. This helps to discourage black bean aphid which attacks the tips. I still had some aphid attacking the Sutton that I had shoved in the gaps. The aphid covered the pods as they always do when I’ve sown the Sutton. There was no evidence that Aquadulce is affected in any way.

 

The tops of the broad bean are said to be edible and can be cooked like any greens. We didn’t get round to trying the tops so must try some next year. You can also eat the young pods whole but we felt this a bit of a waste and would rather eat the beans when they’re large enough to eat. Older beans have a floury texture and benefit from having the skin (testa) pealed away with a knife and discarded. It’s best to eat them before they reach this stage though!