[Markw]

I am going to try growing some pinto beans this year. Has anyone grown them before, and have they got any advice on growing them I would be most grateful for any tips.
It is an early bush bean called Nodak and matures in about 90 days, Just thinking if they would grow ok in the UK.
I would thank anyone who could give me any advice.
Many thanks.

[sunshineband]

http://www.heirloom-organics.com/guide/va/1/guidetogrowingpinto.html

Try this for size Mark. Looks like direct sow into warm, not too wet soil would be about right 

[Markw]

Many thanks for the link, I will give them a try this year, hopefully I  will be able to get them to dry before any cold wet weather,

[sunshineband]

Many thanks for the link, I will give them a try this year, hopefully I  will be able to get them to dry before any cold wet weather,

Some years I have cut whole plants and hung them up to dry off the pods inside when the later end of the year has been wet. Worked just fine 

[Plot_29@_Lady_Mary]

Isn't pinto beans the same as borlotti beans? I grow them every year. Lovely flame red pods! Usually leave them until they are fully grown and pull them off when they are nearly dried. The beans can be kept for ages once properly dried. Delicious in stews. I only ever bought the seeds once, then keep a handful for the following year for growing.

You can sow them straight in situ, but I find the slugs get to them.The best way to start them off in a seed tray around May. They take about two weeks to grow about 2 - 3" then they are ready to plant out. Depending on your location, plant them out late May, when threat of frost is over. Water in dry season, otherwise they are trouble free, much like runner beans. The pods can be eaten when young like runner beans, but I find it such a waste, its just so much better kept till the end, usually mid to end September.