Fava Beans (Vicia Faba)

Fava Beans or Broad Beans (Vicia Faba)

Spring time is always a welcome sight when I see the little paper-white flowers that look like miniature orchids appear on the fava bean stalks that have popped up to signal winter's end. A true gift to pollinators if you're looking for a multi-purpose plant. I originally decided to pick up some fava bean seeds to see if I could grow some foods that were known to help heal the gut and offer a high-protein source for our family. After reading up on the subject, I learned that the beans would also act as a great nitrogen-fixer for my soil... it was a win-win.

Growing fava beans or broad beans (vicia faba) at home

Botanical Name: Vicia x Faba
Variety Name: Ianto's Fava Bean
Common Name(s): Fava Beans, Broad Beans, Horse Beans
Growing Zone: 6+
Lighting Conditions: Full Sun
Average Height: 2 - 7ft. tall, pods can grow to 18" long!
Use(s): Culinary, Medicinal, Ornamental, Aromatic
Harvest Season: September - November
Source: Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds

Harvesting fava beans or broad beans from the garden

Harvesting the Fava bean is a fairly easy task: if there is a minimum of 3-4+ pods in the bean, grab it at the base and twist off the plant. Take care to not damage the stalk so it may continue to push out another flush of flowers. Once the plant is near expiry, save seeds then chop n' drop the remaining plant to amend your soil with. This plant is a nitrogen-fixer!

Shelling fava beans for fresh eating and seed saving

Fresh Eating:
- Remove pods from outer husks by pulling the bean's string.
- Blanch shelled pods in boiling water with salt for 1 min.
- Drain and shock in ice-bath to prevent overcooking.
- Once cooled, squeeze the pod between your thumb and index finger to pop the edible pod out. Use for cooking as desired.

Seed Saving:
- Harvest dried beans from plant and remove outer husks.
- Store in a dark and dry place to maintain seed viability.