Chinese red beans (adzuki beans) 
Adzuki beans produce yellow flowers followed by clusters of smooth, short pods. The seeds and even the young pods can be used in a number of ways.
Sowing
Seeds are best sown directly outside in May or June to July – especially in colder regions (a minimum soil temperature of 10-13 C/50-55F). Sow 2.5cm (1in) deep, 5-10cm (2-4in) apart in rows 30-60cm (1-2ft) apart.
Growing
Plants need, good, well-prepared, well-drained soil. Add a little general fertiliser at sowing time and again when plants start to flower.
Keep well watered during hot, dry periods.
Plants are short (up to 60cm/2ft) and strong growing and generally don’t need any form of support.
Harvesting
The young tender pods can be harvested as green beans by picking the pods when the beans are faintly outlined in the pod; picking every five to seven days is usually sufficient.
Adzuki beans are most useful as a dry bean; harvest the pods after the seeds are ripe but before they shatter. The entire plant with dry pods still attached may be pulled and stacked in a dry, well- ventilated place to dry completely. Soak for one hour before cooking.
Adzuki beans can also be used for bean sprouts.
