How to Grow Aguadulce Broad Bean

Seeds sprout within 7-14 days with cotyledons emerging first, followed by true leaves. Plants develop a sturdy taproot system and establish primary stem growth.

Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Protect young seedlings from birds and slugs. No fertilizer needed at this stage if soil was amended before planting.

Plant develops multiple side shoots and robust leafy growth. Height increases rapidly, reaching 12-24 inches or taller. Stems thicken and more compound leaves form along the main stems.

Stake or support tall varieties if exposed to strong winds. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer to prevent rank foliage. Monitor for pests like black bean aphids.

Distinctive white flowers with black markings appear in clusters along the stems. Blooms typically occur 6-8 weeks after planting (or in early spring for fall-sown plants). Each flower cluster can set multiple pods.

Ensure consistent moisture during this critical stage to support pod set. Do not pinch tips now. Hand-pollinate if bees are scarce. Watch for flowering pests like bean weevils.

Pods swell and mature after flowering. Beans inside enlarge and develop their characteristic large size. Pods turn from green to mature color. Expect 4-8 large beans per pod.

Maintain steady watering to ensure full pod development and large bean size. Reduce nitrogen if available. Support heavy-laden branches to prevent breakage. Harvesting can begin when pods are plump but still tender.

Pods fully mature, become thicker and develop a white or cream-colored seed outline showing through the pod wall. Plants may continue producing secondary pods if regularly harvested.

Pick pods frequently to encourage continued production. Use both hands when harvesting—one to hold the stem, one to pick the pod—to avoid damaging the plant. Mature dried beans can be left on the plant for seed saving.