[JaK]

I got a bargain split bag of broad beans for a few pence today. The bag seems to say' aquad' (under a smudge)  so I'm guessing they may be aquadulce? Anyway could I just stick them in the ground now under a bit of fleece?

[Sprouts]

Yes they'll be OK

[Lardman]

I wouldn't sow direct yet. The soil here is definitely cold and damp and the seed would just rot.

If you want to pop them in now Id start them off in pots - But that is just personal preference based on conditions here, the back of the packet I have says Feb to May.

[Fisherman]

They can be planted straight in the ground but are prone to disappearing (mice and in my case pheasants) or they can be planted in 3" pots until the first 2 leaves have formed. They then need hardening off for a week or two before planting out. Even then they may still need protecting from pheasants and wood pigeons. If the ground is too wet and cold hold back a while or your seed will rot in the ground.

Good Luck