Our Mamba trial crops have consistently produced double the yield of Cobra, with no reduction in flavour or pod quality. Mamba’s mid-green, stringless pods are larger, more uniform and carried in clusters for easy picking. Plants are slightly less vigorous than Cobra, but this is a bonus – growth is more manageable, taking up less space, and the plants will perform better in large patio pots than most other varieties, supported by a wigwam of canes.Sow seeds indoors individually in 7.5cm (3in) pots at 18-21C (65-70F) from mid-April to May for transplanting outdoors after all risk of frost has passed. Alternatively sow direct outdoors May to July in warm soil, as germination can be erratic in cold, wet soils. Sow 2 or 3 seeds 4cm (1½in) deep, allowing 20cm (8in) between each group of seeds and 45cm (18in) between rows with no need to thin out.Gradually acclimatise indoor grown plants to outdoor conditions for a few days before planting out after all risk of frost has passed. Grow as for Runner Beans and support with canes or netting. Hoe regularly and keep well watered, especially when flowering. Mulch during dry periods.For best results cook within an hour of harvesting.