Broad Bean Coles Dwarf
$4.49
Vicia Faba
- Seed Count 10
- Many Culinary Uses
- Annual
In stock
Description
Broad Bean Coles Dwarf is a heavy cropping, hardy variety, growing to 1 m in height with medium sized pods. It has been known in Europe since 600 B.C. and it is a valuable winter and spring vegetable as it withstands heavy frosts.
The beans can be picked young and eaten as snap beans, or you can allow them to mature as a dried bean for soups and stews. They are a fantastic source of vitamins and are ideal for freezing..
Pinching out the tips after the first flowers appear encourages pods to set particularly in warmer areas. Plants may need support by strings between stakes especially when they are heavy with beans.
Method: Sow direct | Soil Temp: 6°C - 24°C |
Cool Mountain: Apr - Sep | Position: Full sun |
Arid: Apr - Jul | Row Spacing: 20 cm apart |
Temperate: Mar - Jul | Planting Depth:10 mm |
Sub Tropical: Mar - Jun | Harvest: 90 days |
Tropical: Not recommended | Plant Height: 1 m |
Growing Conditions
Climate:
- Broad beans thrive in Mediterranean climates, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
- Ideal temperatures for growth range from 6°C to 24°C .
- They are hardy and can tolerate frost but grow best before temperatures exceed 30°C.
Best Time to Plant:
- Autumn Planting: In temperate regions, you can sow seeds from late April to early May.
- Spring Planting: In cooler areas, sow from July through September.
Soil Preparation
Choosing a Site:
- Select a site with full sun exposure for at least 6 hours a day.
- Well-drained soil is crucial to prevent root rot.
Soil Type:
- Broad beans prefer loamy soil rich in organic matter but will tolerate various soil types.
- Test pH levels; broad beans perform best in slightly alkaline to neutral soil (pH 6.0 to 7.0).
Preparation Steps:
- Clear the area of weeds and debris.
- Enrich the soil by mixing in compost or well-rotted manure a few weeks before planting.
- If the soil is heavy clay, consider adding sand or perlite to enhance drainage.
Planting Instructions
Sowing Seeds:
- Plant seeds about 1 cm deep, spaced 20 cm apart, with rows 20 cm apart.
- For optimal growth, soak seeds in water for a few hours before planting to encourage germination.
Watering:
- Water the seeds thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture until seedlings establish.
- Avoid overwatering, as broad beans do not thrive in waterlogged conditions.
Maintenance
Watering:
- Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during flowering and pod-setting since stress during this period can reduce yield.
- Mulching can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilisation:
- Broad beans are nitrogen-fixing plants; therefore, they require less nitrogen fertiliser.
- You can use a balanced organic fertiliser or compost if the soil lacks nutrients.
Support and Staking:
- Taller varieties may require staking to prevent wind damage and improve air circulation.
- Use bamboo stakes or garden twine to support plants as needed.
Pest and Disease Management:
- Common pests include aphids, which can be managed by introducing beneficial insects (like ladybirds) or using neem oil.
- Check for diseases like chocolate spot and downy mildew.
- Ensure good air circulation and avoid wet foliage to prevent these issues.
Harvesting
Timing:
- Broad beans are typically ready for harvest 3-4 months after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
- The best time to harvest is when the pods are plump but before they become overly tough and fibrous.
Harvesting Technique:
- Snap off the pods gently when they reach the desired size. If harvesting for seeds, leave the pods on the plant until they dry out a bit and turn brown.
Companion Planting
Beneficial Companions:
- Cabbage Family (Brassicas): Helps deter aphids, benefiting crops such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower.
- Carrots: These plants occupy different root zones and can be interplanted without competition.
- Beets: Both plants benefit from each other’s growth patterns and utilize the soil’s nutrients efficiently.
- Corn: Planting corn alongside broad beans can provide structural support for climbing varieties.
- Dill and Mint: These herbs attract beneficial pollinators and predators that help control pest populations.
- Sage: An aromatic herb that can enhance the flavour of beans and deter pests.
Plants to Avoid:
- Onions and Garlic: These can stunt the growth of broad beans due to their high sulphur content.
- Potatoes: Can compete for nutrients and may harbor similar pests.
Order Times
Seed orders are normally dispatched within three business days. You will receive an email when seeds are mailed out.
Packaging
No plastics are used in our seed envelopes or postage materials. Everything is compostable and fully bio degradable.
Postage Days
Seeds are mailed out Monday to Friday at 1pm. Except for the Friday of long weekends.
Postage Times
WA 2-3 Days: SA,NT 3-5 Days: NSW, ACT, QLD, VIC: 5-7 Days
Carrier
We use Australia Post Letter Postage for the majority of orders
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