Fava Bean Seeds, Broad Windsor

star-filled
4.4
14 Reviews
Sku:
#FB101
Min. seed count:
15
$3.50

Description

(Vicia faba) Fava beans, particularly the 'Broad Windsor' variety, are an old English favorite. This bean yields gourmet, high-protein beans on upright non-branching plants. The beans are large, and their mild flavor pairs perfectly with spices and herbs.

  • 75 Days
  • Full Sun
  • Sprouts in 7-14 Days
  • Seed Depth: 2-4"
  • Ideal Temperature: 60-70 F
  • Plant Spacing: 8" 
  • Frost Hardy: Yes

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

These beans thrive in cool weather and are ideal for planting in spring or fall. They prefer well-drained loamy soil and need full sun to partial shade. Ensure soil pH is between 6.2 and 6.8 for optimal growth. Use stakes or trellises to support taller plants, which can reach heights of 2 to 6 feet​​.

When to Grow

Broad Windsor beans can be planted as soon as the soil can be worked in spring or in fall in regions with mild winters. They can tolerate temperatures down to 40 F. In areas with mild winters, they may be planted in fall. The ideal temperature for growing is 60-70 F.

How to Sow and Plant

Directly sow seeds 2-4 inches deep and about 8 inches apart in rows 2-3 feet apart. If starting indoors, transplant seedlings after 2 weeks. Ensure good soil moisture but avoid waterlogging. Watering is crucial during flowering and pod formation stages. Planting in raised beds is also effective​. Sprouts appear in 7-14 days.

How to Grow

Broad Windsor fava beans are hardy and can withstand light frost. They need regular watering, particularly when setting pods, and should be kept moist but not soggy. Prune the tops of plants when they begin to flower to encourage bushier growth and reduce pest issues. Fertilization is generally unnecessary as the beans fix nitrogen in the soil, but compost can be beneficial in nutrient-poor soils​.

How to Save

Broad Windsor is a self-pollinating annual legume that sometimes is insect pollinated. If you are growing more than one variety be sure to isolate different varieties by 500 feet to prevent accidental insect-caused cross pollination.

Save seeds from at least 10 different plants to ensure genetic strength.

Allow seed pods to brown and dry on the plant.

If rain is expected, you can harvest nearly dried pods and finish the process in a dry, bright location out of the rain.

Release beans from pods and make sure they are fully dry and cannot be dented with a fingernail.

Store seeds in a cool, dark, dry place.

FAQ

Do Broad Windsor fava beans need support?
Yes, taller varieties benefit from stakes or trellises to prevent flopping.

Can Broad Windsor fava beans tolerate frost?
They can tolerate light frost and temperatures as low as 40 F, sometimes even 21 F for short periods.

How often should I water Broad Windsor fava beans?
Provide about an inch of water per week, increasing during flowering and pod formation.

delivery
Fast & Free shipping. Seed Orders Shipped in 2-5 days from our seed store!
Fava Bean Seeds, Broad Windsor
star-filled
4.4
Customer reviews (14)
$3.50
x