River Cottage Organic Veg Seeds - Broad Bean 'Eleonora'

Broad Bean Eleonora is a productive broad bean with tender green beans and a rich, savoury flavour. It is excellent with mint, lemon, olive oil, pasta, risotto, salads and spring vegetables. A strong early crop for proper garden cooking.

Sow indoors - January to March
Sow outdoors - February to April, or October to November in mild areas
Sowing depth - Around 5 cm
Final spacing - Around 20 cm
Row spacing - Around 45 cm
Germination - Usually 10 to 21 days

Sow directly into the ground or begin in deep pots. Plant in double rows if you want to make supporting the plants easier.

These measurements are only a guide. Growing is not an exact science, so do not worry if every seed is not perfectly placed.

Grower tip: Pinch out the soft growing tips once the first pods begin forming. This can help reduce blackfly and directs more energy towards the beans.

Broad beans like cool conditions and fertile soil. Support taller plants with canes and string. Pinch out the growing tips once the first pods form to reduce blackfly and encourage good cropping.

Broad beans can grow in large pots or troughs, but they are usually better in beds. Use a container at least 30 cm deep and provide support. Choose a sunny spot.

Harvest pods when the beans inside are well formed but still tender. Pick young for the sweetest flavour. Beans can be cooked fresh, or blanched and frozen.

We want your seeds to grow. If you follow our sowing instructions, give them a fair chance, and they still do not grow, we’ll put it right.

Eligible customers can choose either a refund for the seeds that did not grow, or replacement seeds of the same value.

For more information on our policy go to our No Grow No Fee page.