Until recently soya beans were not reliable in the UK. However, the new cultivar ‘Ustie’ has been specifically bred to suit the British climate; ‘Black Jet’ is also hardier than most types and suitable for the UK climate.
The flowers are self-pollinating, so produces reliable crops without needing pollinating insects. It produces lots of downy, weatherproof pods through autumn. The plants are also pest and disease free.
Sow in May and early June 5cm (2in) deep in 7.5cm (3in) pots or trays of seed compost. Put in a propagator, or seal inside a polythene bag, and provide gentle heat to 18-20C (65-68F).
Can also be sown directly outside once the soil has warmed up in late spring.
Gradually acclimatise indoor sown plants to outdoor conditions before planting out after all risk of frost.
Prefers well-drained but moist soil in a sunny position.
Sow or plant 15cm (6in) apart in rows 45cm (18in) apart.
Plants can grow up to 1.2m (4ft) high, but are mainly self supporting.
Hoe around plants regularly and keep well watered. Mulching during dry periods will help cropping.
The leaves fall off when the crop is ready, often leaving just brown stems with lots of hanging pods from late September. The pods remain weatherproof during the autumn, so you can pick as required. Beans are easy to store on the plants or in airtight containers.
Harvested beans must be boiled before eating to destroy inhibitors for protein ingestion.
