Legumes

Fava beans (also called broad beans) thrive in cool weather and are one of the earliest crops you can plant in spring or the latest in fall for a winter crop. Knowing the right planting time for your region ensures strong growth and a rewarding harvest. I’ve been growing fava beans for decades in Sonoma…

Fava beans are cool-season legumes that thrive when planted correctly—deep enough to anchor their tall stems and spaced to allow good air circulation. Getting depth and spacing right helps prevent disease, supports sturdy growth, and sets the stage for a plentiful harvest. I’ve been planting fava beans for decades in my Sonoma Valley garden, and…

Fava beans (broad beans) are one of the best crops for enriching your garden soil. As legumes, they fix nitrogen from the air and add it to the soil through their roots—benefiting nearby plants. Companion planting fava beans can improve soil fertility, reduce pests, and make the most of your growing space. Over many seasons…

Fava beans (broad beans) are cool-weather plants that don’t need a lot of space to thrive. With the right container and care, you can grow a productive crop of fava beans right on your patio, balcony, or sunny doorstep. Container growing gives you control over soil, moisture, and pests—ideal if your garden space is limited…

Fava beans (broad beans) are cool-weather legumes that thrive in rich, well-draining soil. They’re among the most forgiving crops, but the right soil preparation can make a big difference in growth, yield, and flavor. Fava beans don’t need high fertility—they feed themselves by fixing nitrogen—but they do need the right texture, pH, and structure to…