We're venturing into bleak midwinter territory, but you can still learn how to grow broad beans – in fact, now is the best time to tackle this hardy vegetable if you want a tasty crop come summer.

Broad beans are an ancient favourite with evidence of cultivation from as early as 6,000 BC. Easy to grow, high in protein and rich in vitamin C they're still a must for today's vegetable plot.

Witkiem, a Dutch variety of fava beans from William Dan Seeds, produces plants that are sturdy and productive.

Broad beans are a traditional allotment crop that, sown in November, can provide one of the first fresh pickings of summer. You can also sow in spring. The Which? Gardening magazine experts have ...