How to intercrop the broad bean
How to intercrop the broad bean
The broad bean (Vicia faba L., 1753) is a plant of the Leguminosae family (Fabaceae) which, normally, in the traditional open-field technique, is alternated as an improving crop between two wheats. The soil is prepared in summer, then refined and fertilized: sowing is done in rows or small holes, so as to have 8-10 plants/m2. Being a plant that fears heat, in warm temperate climate zones the sowing of broad beans should be carried out in autumn or at the beginning of winter, with harvests starting approximately 180 days later. For very cold areas it is better to sow in spring.
In food consumption, broad beans are usually eaten raw after having removed them from the pod.
Broad beans can also be used cooked in various recipes, such as pasta and broad bean soup, soups with broad beans, peas and artichokes and many others. Even the peels of the pod can be eaten, after cooking, which often happened in past centuries when food was scarce and nothing had to be thrown away.
In general, many plants benefit from intercropping the broad bean which, in turn, derives considerable benefits.
Among the plants to be associated with the broad bean we mention the following: hemp, carrot, cabbage, lettuce, corn, spinach; Furthermore, intercropping with potatoes is very advantageous.
Finally, the combination with garlic and leek should be avoided.
The broad bean, therefore, is a plant that benefits from intercropping with other plants for various reasons, such as improving soil health, reducing pest infestations and increasing overall yield. Here are some plants with which the broad bean can be effectively associated:
– Corn (Zea mays): corn grows tall, while broad beans grow closer to the ground. This allows the beans to benefit from the shade provided by the corn and, at the same time, enrich the soil with nitrogen, thanks to their nitrogen fixation capacity.
– Carrots (Daucus carota): carrots and broad beans do not compete for the same resources, given that the roots of carrots grow deep, while those of broad beans tend to develop more on the surface. This intercropping allows you to optimize the use of space and resources in the soil.
– Lettuce (Lactuca sativa): Lettuce grows quickly and can be planted between rows of broad beans, making use of the space between broad bean plants and helping to reduce weed growth.
– Spinach (Spinacia oleracea): Similar to lettuce, spinach can grow well among broad beans, benefiting from light shade and helping to keep the soil covered, which reduces water evaporation and weed growth.
– Cabbage (Brassica oleracea): Cabbages benefit from the nitrogen fixation of broad beans and offer a good match for vigorous growth.
– Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum): Potatoes and broad beans are one of the most positive intercrops, as broad beans can help improve soil structure, making it easier for potatoes to grow. Additionally, potatoes tend to ripen later than broad beans, reducing competition for resources.
In general, when intercropping plants, it is important to consider the light, water and nutrient needs of each species to avoid direct competition and ensure that all plants involved can thrive.