Avocados are celebrated as a delicious superfood, packed with healthy fats and ideal for toast or guacamole. However, their high supermarket prices and short shelf life once ripe can be frustrating for many consumers. Now, a gardening influencer is advocating for a shift away from this trendy fruit, promoting a more affordable and garden-friendly alternative.
Meet the Gardening Influencer Behind the Idea
Amy Chapman, widely known on social media as 'IntheCottageGarden', has built a substantial following of half a million across platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Her audience eagerly absorbs her practical tips for successful gardening, and she recently sparked interest with a novel suggestion for breakfast enthusiasts.
Why Broad Beans Make a Great Substitute
In a video shared on Instagram, Amy addressed those who love avocado on toast but face challenges due to cooler climates where avocados struggle to grow. She proposed growing broad beans instead, emphasising their suitability and ease of cultivation.
"You can grow your own avocado alternative, here's how," she announced at the start of the clip. "If you love avo on toast, but, like me, you live in a cooler climate where avocados just wouldn't grow, try growing broad beans instead."
While broad beans might not initially sound exciting, Amy defended her recommendation by highlighting their culinary potential. "I know they might not sound that exciting, but hear me out because they taste amazing blitzed up with a little oil and garlic and spread onto toast. And they're also super easy to grow," she explained.
Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Broad Beans
For those interested in cultivating their own broad beans, Amy provided detailed instructions:
- Planting Time: Seeds can be started in spring or autumn.
- Planting Method: Directly poke seeds into the ground where you want them to grow, or for extra protection from pests like mice, start them indoors in pots or deep root trainers.
- Maintenance: These plants are low-maintenance; ensure they are planted in a sunny spot and watered occasionally to prevent drying out.
Additional Benefits of Growing Broad Beans
Beyond providing a tasty alternative to avocados, growing broad beans offers environmental advantages. Amy noted that they help fix nitrogen into the soil from the air, potentially improving soil quality for future gardening endeavours.
"And other than that, you can pretty much just leave them to do their thing and you'll be harvesting an abundance of these vibrant beans from early summer," she added, encouraging gardeners to enjoy a bountiful harvest with minimal effort.
Public Reaction to the Unusual Suggestion
Viewers responded with a mix of humour and curiosity in the comments section. One person remarked, "So you're proposing... Beans on toast. Love it." Another quipped, "If we all just grew broad beans maybe we'd be able to afford houses," highlighting the cost-saving aspect.
When asked about recommended varieties, Amy shared her positive experiences: "I've never had a bad broad bean variety! I've had good luck with the Sutton, aquadulce Claudia, and red epicure." This insight provides valuable guidance for beginners looking to start their own garden projects.
Overall, Amy Chapman's advice offers a practical, sustainable solution for those seeking to reduce grocery bills and enjoy homegrown produce, all while adapting to cooler climates where traditional avocados may not thrive.
