Mr Fothergill's Dwarf French Bean Rondo Seeds, Late maturing and resistant to common diseases, stringless 'filet' bean. In hot weather mist the flowers with tepid water in the evening to help pods form. An early and a late sowing will extend the harvest period.

Sow indoors for surest results, 2.5cm deep into individual pots of compost. Water well and place in a warm position. A temperature of 15-20°C. is ideal. Keep moist. Seedlings usually appear in 7-14 days. Gradually accustom plants to outside conditions (avoid frosts), before planting out 30cm apart, when frosts are over. Allow 45cm between rows. Or sow outdoors for ease, where they are to crop, 5cm deep, directly into finely prepared soil which has already been watered. Delay sowing if soil is cold or waterlogged. Sow two seeds together, 30cm between each position. Allow 45cm between rows. Thin to leave stronger plant. Water well until plants are established. An early and a late sowing will extend the harvest period. Pick beans regularly to encourage further cropping.

• Slow to mature, letting the flavour develop, with fine pods remaining slender
• High yielding plants show resistance to Bean Common Mosaic Virus, Halo Blight and Anthracnose
• Good source of vitamin C, vitamin A and fibre

Sow time: Apr-Jul
Flowering/Harvesting time: Jun-Oct