🌱 How to Grow Green Podded Beans (Valor / Indian Broad Beans) from Seeds
Also known as:

• Hindi: सेम फली / वाल

• Tamil: அவரைக்காய்

• Telugu: చిక్కుడు గింజలు

• Malayalam: അവരക്ക

• Kannada: ಅವರೆಕಾಯಿ

• English: Green Podded Beans / Valor / Indian Broad Beans

• Botanical Name: Lablab purpureus

1. 🗓️ Choose the Right Season

• Warm-season crop

• Best time to sow: June to August (Monsoon) or February to March (Spring)

• Ideal temperature: 18°C to 30°C

2. 🌱 Prepare the Soil

• Soil Type: Well-drained loamy soil rich in organic matter

• pH Level: Neutral to slightly acidic (6.0–7.0)

• Mix compost, cow dung, or well-rotted manure before sowing

3. 🌾 Sowing the Seeds

• Soak seeds overnight to improve germination

• Depth: Sow 1–1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm) deep

• Spacing:

  • 12–18 inches between plants

  • 2–3 feet between rows

• Sow directly in beds or large containers with a trellis

4. 💧 Watering

• Water thoroughly after sowing

• Keep soil consistently moist during germination

• Avoid overwatering — ensure good drainage to prevent root rot

5. 🌿 Germination

• Seeds germinate in 7–12 days

• Provide warmth and moisture

• Thin seedlings to allow space for growth

6. ☀️ Sunlight & Temperature

• Requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight

• Grows best in warm, humid climates

• Protect from frost or extreme cold

7. 🌼 Fertilization

• Add compost or organic fertilizer before planting

• Side-dress with compost or vermicompost monthly

• Avoid excessive nitrogen — it promotes leaves over pods

8. 🛡️ Pest & Disease Control

• Common pests: Aphids, bean beetles, caterpillars

• Common diseases: Powdery mildew, rust

• Use neem oil spray every 10–15 days

• Remove infected leaves and improve air circulation

9. 🌿 Harvesting

• Harvest in 60–75 days

• Pick pods when tender and green

• Harvest regularly to promote continuous production

• Avoid over-mature pods — they become fibrous

10. 🌱 Regrow Tip

• Allow some pods to mature and dry on the plant

• Collect and dry seeds thoroughly

• Store in a cool, dry place for next season

🫘 Health Benefits of Valor (Indian Broad Beans)

• Rich in protein and dietary fiber

• Good source of vitamins A, C, and folate

• Supports digestion and heart health

• Helps regulate blood sugar levels