Bean - Fava

Packed in Resealable Long Life Mylar
Moisture Proof Packets
10+ Year Survival Seed Viability

• Category: Vegetable
• Type: Bean
• Variety: Fava (Broad Bean, Faba Bean)
• Family: Legumes
• Botanical Name: Vicia faba
• Hardiness Zones: 2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11
• Growing Difficulty:  3
• Soil PH:  6.0 to 6.5
• Fertilizer Requirements:  Not Typically Needed
• Soil Type: Rich, Loose, Loamy
• Germination (days): 7 – 14 
• Soil Temp for Germination: 65 – 75°F
• Lighting Conditions: Full Sun
• Days to Maturity:  75 – 100
• Planting Depth:  2”
• Distance Apart (in row):  6”
• Row Spacing: 18-24”

Sowing Instructions

Southern Climates - DIRECT SOW IN EARLY FALL OR EARLY SPRING

Northern Climates - DIRECT SOW FEBRUARY - APRIL

Starting Indoors

NOT RECOMMENDED TO START INDOORS

Growing Tips

Although it's not required, Fava Beans do well when soaked in luke warm water overnight before planting. Make sure not to use hot water, as you'll risk killing your seeds.

Culinary Uses

Fava beans are often boiled in a salty brine and prepared in many different recipes. They are an excellent source of protein when served with pasta, as a salad, or even as a mashed spread. These little beans pack a delicious buttery taste that is unmatched by any other bean variety. 

Harvesting Crops

After about 3 months, your Fava Beans will be ready for harvesting (depending on how you planted them). Feel the pods to make sure they feel full and are not able to be squeezed. You should feel the large beans firmly inside of the shell. Harvest the seed pods by cutting them off the plant (pulling them off could damage the plant and prevent further growth). 

If storing as a dried bean, allow your freshly cut seed pods to dry completely before shelling. Store your freshly dried beans in a cool, dry place to be used as traditional dry beans.

Harvesting Seed

Don't forget to select a couple of plants to be used strictly as seed stock. Once your beans have fully matured and your plant is no longer producing, you may begin to pluck your seed pods off the plant. 

Dry your seed pods in a safe environment away from any moisture. After they completely dry, crack open the bean pods and store the seeds in a cool dry place for planting next season.

Contraindications

People with G6PD Deficiency should avoid eating Fava Beans, as they may be a trigger for hemolysis. This is due to a high concentration of vicine and covicine. Fava beans are the only beans that contain these compounds.