Broad Bean Plants
Broad beans, also known as fava beans, are large, cool-season vegetables more closely related to vetch than to other types of beans. These vegetables originate from the Mediterranean region of the world, but adapt well to many American vegetable gardens. Broad beans are a nutritious addition to the dinner plate, containing 23 percent protein. Does this Spark an idea?
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Description
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Broad bean plants closely resemble English peas, but differ from other types of beans. The plant grows from large, round, flat seeds which range in color from white to green to purple and even brown and black. Broad beans produce large, thick green bean pods which range in length between 2 and 12 inches, according to James M. Stephens of the University of Florida IFAS Extension. At its mature height, the plant ranges between 2 and 5 feet tall.
Growing Season
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Broad beans thrive in cool weather, making it important to grow these beans in the cooler weather of the spring or the fall. From planting to harvest, the plants take between 80 and 120 days to germinate, on average. In areas of the United States with mild winters, plant broad beans in the autumn. In areas with a harsher winter, where the ground is likely to freeze, plant broad beans as soon as the ground is workable in the spring. Depending on climate, the best time to plant broad beans is between March and September.
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Planting Tips
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When planting broad beans in the garden, it's important to space plants properly. Proper spacing provides adequate air circulation between the beans and prevents overcrowding. Dig trenches about 2 inches deep. Space each trench 3 feet away from the previous one. Sow seeds in the trenches, spacing them 3 to 4 inches apart. Stake taller varieties to prevent them from falling over.
Harvesting
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Beans are ready for harvest when the pods become plump and green. Harvest before pods turn brown. Brown pods indicate the interior beans have dried out and the vegetable is no longer edible.
Interesting Facts
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In addition to broad beans, these plants are known by many names including fava beans, horse beans, Windsor beans, English beans, tick beans and pigeon beans. The names "horse beans" and "pigeon beans" originated from when these beans were used for animal feed. Some gardeners grow beans to improve vegetable garden soil. Plant beans in the fall and till the beans into the soil in the spring, prior to planting warm-season vegetables.
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References
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