Beans

But let's get serious. We are talking about taking things to the next level. We are talking about "heirloom beans".

I have gone whole hog for Rancho Gordo.

I first became aware of the existence of "heirloom beans" back in 2016. "Why heirloom beans?" I hear you ask. I can give you at least two reasons. Variety is one. There are a myriad of different sorts of wonderful beans. Freshness is another. You are typically getting "new crop" when you buy from a grower like Rancho Gordo, and it really makes a difference. The final thing is that commercial agriculture has settled on whatever bean they can grow most easily with the greatest productivity. Taste and quality is hardly a consideration.

• Rancho Gordo
• Elegant Beans

• Seed Savers Exchange
• Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds (seeds only)

I have ordered from Rancho Gordo. $10 shipping, so it pays to buy several pounds.

They even have a bean "club", but membership is limited. You have to get on a waiting list. I think I was on their waiting list for almost 2 years, then one day when I had entirely forgotten about it, I got an email invitation if I was still interested.

In Tucson, Time Market and Native Seed Search offer interesting beans for sale. Native Seed Search is a non-profit and deserves a visit.

• A hill of beans
• Comfort in stockpiling beans