While many plants slow their growth during the colder months, there are exceptions – and one of them is the broad bean, also known as fava beans.
Despite my indifference toward them, I can’t ignore the wonder of these hardy plants that can flourish even when most crops are in dormancy.
Broad beans, unlike warm weather climbing beans, can be grown during winter, especially in varieties like the popular Aquadulce Claudia.
If protected with fleece or a cloche, these beans can begin to sprout in just a few weeks.
If you’re in a colder region, it’s better to wait until early spring to start growing broad beans, as this gives you access to a wider range of varieties.
Varieties such as Sutton Dwarf are perfect for container gardening and small spaces, while Crimson Flowered broad beans will surprise you with their deep pink flowers instead of the usual white-and-black ones.
Broad beans are versatile in the kitchen, especially when the tips are tender.
Broad beans improve soil nitrogen levels, benefiting subsequent crops after harvest.These can be added to salads or lightly sautéed. As the pods swell, the beans inside become sweeter, offering a delectable treat when harvested. For optimal growth, broad beans require fertile, free-draining soil.
While many gardeners plant their seeds directly into the ground, I prefer starting mine in pots to avoid the heavy clay in my soil. To give the roots room to grow, use root trainers or even loo roll tubes.
Space the seeds 15cm apart, ensuring they get plenty of sunlight in a sheltered spot.
One common pest issue for broad beans is the black bean aphid, which can cause new growth to become stunted. Fortunately, pinching off affected areas can help mitigate the problem.
Broad beans are generally trouble-free but may require protection from mice in the early stages. As they grow, a stake may be necessary for support, particularly with taller varieties that can reach over a meter.
In addition to their culinary benefits, broad beans are excellent for the soil. After harvest, leaving the roots in the ground helps boost nitrogen levels, which benefits the next crop.
Whether harvested early in the season or in summer, broad beans are a resilient, low-maintenance crop that rewards gardeners with a steady supply of tasty beans.