🌱 How to Grow Broad Bean (Surti Papdi) from Seeds
Also known as:

• Hindi: सुरती पापड़ी (Surti Papdi)

• Tamil: பீன் (Pean)

• Telugu: పప్పు బీన్స్ (Pappu Beans)

• Malayalam: ബീൻസ് (Beans)

• Kannada: ಬೀನ್ಸ್ (Beans)

• English: Broad Bean / Fava Bean

• Botanical Name: Vicia faba

1. 🗓️ Choose the Right Season

• Cool-season legume crop

• Best time to sow: October to February (winter months)

• Ideal temperature: 10°C to 18°C

2. 🌱 Prepare the Soil

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

• pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline (6.0–7.5)

• Enrich soil with compost or well-rotted manure before sowing

3. 🌾 Sowing the Seeds

• Depth: Sow seeds 1.5 to 2 inches (4–5 cm) deep

• Spacing:

  • Rows: 18–24 inches apart

  • Plants: Thin to 6–8 inches apart after germination

• Pre-soak seeds overnight to speed germination (optional)

4. 💧 Watering

• Keep soil moist but not waterlogged

• Water regularly during flowering and pod formation

• Mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weed growth

5. 🌿 Germination

• Seeds germinate in 7–14 days

• Ensure soil temperature is cool and consistent for best results

6. ☀️ Sunlight & Temperature

• Requires full sun, at least 6 hours per day

• Grows best in cool weather; avoid high temperatures to prevent bolting

7. 🌼 Fertilization

• Add compost or organic fertilizer before sowing

• Side-dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizer mid-season for better pod development

8. 🛡️ Pest & Disease Control

• Common pests: aphids, bean weevils

• Common diseases: rust, powdery mildew

• Use neem oil spray or organic insecticides if needed

• Practice crop rotation and remove infected plants promptly

9. 🥬 Harvesting

• Pods ready in 60–80 days depending on variety

• Harvest pods when they are full but still tender

• Regular picking encourages more pod production

10. 🌱 Regrow Tip

• Allow some pods to mature fully for seed saving

• Dry seeds thoroughly before storing in a cool, dry place

🌿 Health Benefits of Broad Beans

• High in protein and dietary fiber

• Rich source of vitamins A, B, and C

• Supports heart health and digestion

• Helps in managing blood sugar levels