🌱 How to Grow Val Beans (Pawata) from Seeds
Also known as:

• Hindi: पावटा / सेम

• Marathi: वाल (Val)

• Tamil: மொச்சை (Mochai)

• Telugu: అవర (Avara)

• Malayalam: അവര (Avara)

• Kannada: ಅವರೆಕಾಯಿ (Avarekayi)

• English: Hyacinth Bean / Field Bean / Indian Broad Bean

• Botanical Name: Lablab purpureus

1. 🗓️ Choose the Right Season

• Warm-season legume

• Best time to sow:

  • Kharif crop: June–July

  • Rabi crop: October–November (in mild climates)

• Ideal temperature: 20°C to 30°C

2. 🌱 Prepare the Soil

• Soil Type: Loamy, well-drained soil rich in organic matter

• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5)

• Mix compost or well-rotted manure before sowing

• Raised beds are ideal for good root development

3. 🌾 Sowing the Seeds

• Pre-soak seeds in water for 8–10 hours for better germination

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

• Spacing:

  • In-ground: 1 foot between plants, 2 feet between rows

  • In containers: Use 12–15 inch deep pots, 2 seeds per pot

4. 💧 Watering

• Water moderately during early growth

• Increase frequency during flowering and pod formation

• Avoid overwatering — ensure proper drainage

5. 🌿 Germination

• Seeds germinate in 6–10 days

• Keep soil moist but not soggy during this period

• Provide warm, sunny conditions for best results

6. ☀️ Sunlight & Temperature

• Requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily

• Grows best in warm weather; avoid frost

• Provide stakes or trellis support for climbing varieties

7. 🌼 Fertilization

• Incorporate compost at planting time

• Top-dress with compost or organic fertilizer every 3–4 weeks

• Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers — promote pod growth instead of excess foliage

8. 🛡️ Pest & Disease Control

• Common pests: Aphids, pod borers, leaf miners

• Common diseases: Powdery mildew, rust

• Use neem oil spray or organic insecticides every 10–15 days

• Remove diseased leaves promptly to maintain plant health

9. 🌿 Harvesting

• Ready to harvest in 60–80 days

• Harvest tender pods for vegetable use

• For seeds: allow pods to fully mature and dry on the plant

• Regular harvesting encourages more pod production

10. 🌱 Regrow Tip

• Save seeds from mature, dried pods

• Dry seeds well before storing

• Store in a cool, dry place for future planting

🌟 Health Benefits of Val Beans

• High in protein and dietary fiber

• Good source of iron, calcium, and B-complex vitamins

• Supports digestion and heart health

• Traditional food for strength and immunity in Indian cuisine