Before I put it in the ground, I soak it in water and add a few drops. No one in the area has such rich harvests

Broad beans are an excellent vegetable for allotments and gardens, giving large yields from a relatively small green area. It has a much better taste than those found in supermarkets. They are best eaten freshly picked. It is a member of the legume family and has thick, fleshy pods that protect the edible seeds. It is a source of protein and carbohydrates and at the same time low in fat, making it an ideal choice for vegetarian and low-fat dishes. Moreover, it is a valuable source of fiber, vitamin C, folic acid, pantothenic acid, vitamin A and niacin.

When to plant broad beans in the ground? The best time to start working in the garden

The best time to sow broad bean seeds directly into the ground is early spring. The optimal time will be time from mid-March to mid-Aprilwhen the soil temperature reaches about 10-15 degrees Celsius. In the case of this plant, the rule applies: the more, the better. Broad beans are resistant to temperature drops, and earlier sowing will protect the plant against pest attacks. Moreover, the seeds will germinate faster and the yield will be better. It is worth soaking the seeds well the day before sowing and adding a few drops of iodine to destroy any bacteria and fungi that may be present on the seeds.

What shouldn’t you plant broad beans next to? The worst and the best neighborhood

Broad beans are a very good partner in mixed crops due to their nitrogen-fixing properties. It will be a great companion for plants growing shallowly, as it grows quite deep on its own. It is also worth sowing plants that attract bees, e.g. chamomile, near broad beans, so that broad bean flowers are better pollinated and produce more seeds. Grow it next to:

• potatoes,
• kohlrabi,
• cauliflower,
• broccoli,
• corn,
• cabbage plants.

However, broad beans do not like the presence of tomatoes, celery, beetroot, rhubarb, spinach, leeks, peas or beans, because in such a situation the seeds set less well. Vegetables also suffer from pests and diseases.