The bean is a very valuable vegetable for the garden: on the one hand because its seed resists winter in the field and it is therefore one of the rare vegetable plants that can be sown in November, on the other leaves because, like other legumes, it brings nitrogen to the soil, enriching it.
Let’s go into detail on how and when to plant this crop, those who want to read on can skip to the complete guide on how to grow beans in the organic garden. From planting depth to lunar phases, together we see all the useful information to start growing this legume.
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When to Plant Beans
There are two possible planting periods for the bean (vicia faba): you can choose to put the legume in the ground in the fall, so between October and November, or you can choose a spring planting, planting the seed between February and March. Winter sowing accelerates the development of the plant, which can develop best as soon as the winter cold ends, but in very cold regions it is better to wait until March.
The Right Moon Phase for Beans
First of all, it should be noted that there is no scientific evidence of a real influence on agriculture by the phases of the moon, but in the agricultural tradition based on centuries of experience, the custom of follow the moon to sow is still anchored. The bean is a plant cultivated for its fruits and, therefore, it must be sown in the crescent moon, which is said to have a positive influence on the development of the aerial part of plants and, in particular, on the flowering and fruiting. . However, legumes are very hardy seeds and plants that thrive in any case: if beans are also sown on a waning moon, there is no problem. In Orto Da Coltivare, at the request of many of you, we have included a calendar of the lunar phases, if you want to follow them you will find a useful reference.
Sowing depth and planting depth
An old rule is to bury each seed at least twice its size, applying it to the grain is not bad. Then we place the seeds at a depth of 4-5 centimeters. It is not necessary to worry about the direction of the seed, you can bury the legume in passing, it will still rise to the surface, it is a particularly vigorous seed.
Broad beans can be planted in rows, by digging a planting furrow, or by means of stakes. If you decide to put them in the furrow, separate the rows about 70 centimeters and place the seeds every 20 centimeters, if you prefer holes, you must maintain a separation of at least 60 centimeters.
These distances can be modified according to the different varieties of beans planted: if you choose dwarf plants, you can bring them closer, if they are very vigorous climbing varieties, it is better to leave more space.