BACK

Broad Beans

Vicia faba

INTRODUCTION

Broad beans, also known as Fava beans, originate from the Mediterranean area.

Broad Beans are an easy and rewarding crop to grow, tolerant to most soils and conditions, and are the first of the bean crops to mature. It's also a versatile vegetable in the kitchen too, not only can the beans be cooked and eaten but the whole pods - including the growing tips (a great substitute for Spinach). A hardy and prolific crop, this is a great choice for the novice.

Soil Preparation

Broad Beans require a well-drained, moderately fertile soil preferably in a sheltered position away from prevailing winds.

Prepare the ground by incorporating well-rotted manure or garden compost into the soil.

If the growing site is exposed, consider growing a more dwarf variety such as The Sutton or Robin Hood.

Sowing & Planting

Seed sowings can be made during the autumn from late October until early December as long as soil conditions are above 5 degrees. Sowings can resume again in early spring, from February until May.

As an alternative, sow seeds in pots or modules under cover (greenhouse, cloche or cold frame ) and plant out when the weather permits. Ensure plants are well hardened before planting.

Sowings and plantings are best made in double rows so that plants can support each other. Seed should be sown at a depth of 8 cm (3 in) with 20cm (8in) between plants.

Row spacing should be 20cm (8in) apart with 60cm (24in) between each set of double rows.

For continual cropping throughout the season, sow every 3-4 weeks.

Growing & General Cultivation

Keep plants weed-free by regular hoeing but ensure plant bases are not loosened.

Support plants if necessary with stakes or canes and string, particularly in exposed areas.

During dry weather, water plants well to keep growth and flowering active.

When the first flowers appear, pinch out plant tips to encourage flowering/pod formation and discourage black fly.

If the ground has been previously well manured, further feeding should not be necessary.

Pests & Diseases

Mice can dig up and eat seed, if mice have been a problem elsewhere, slightly over sow.

Chocolate Spot can appear on overwintered crops and during wet weather but is seldom a serious problem.

Black Bean Aphid will almost certainly appear during late Spring and Summer. Although unsightly, it does not normally affect the crop too much. Spray if you have to but you should be able to keep it under control by removing plant tips.

Pea and Bean Weevil will attack foliage leaving leaves with a serrated appearance but should have no detrimental effect on plant growth or yields.