Time to Plant Fava Beans

Air Temperature

• The right temperature helps fava beans thrive, though, as hearty plants, they are able to tolerate both cold and warm weather well. A cool-weather plant, the ideal time to grow fava beans is when temperatures hover between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they are able to withstand temps as low as 40 degrees and as high as 75 degrees, providing gardeners with much leniency as to choosing a planting time.

Soil Temperature

• Though air temperature is important to raising a healthy crop of fava beans, soil temperature should also be taken into account. Though soft, spring soil is ideal, measure its temperature before putting seeds into the ground. Fava beans may not germinate properly and could even rot if soil temperatures are below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, according to Purdue University's Department of Horticulture. Also, ensure the soil is fertile, well-drained and that it receives plenty of sunlight.

Planting

• Try to match planting times with a period of mild temps to provide your fava beans with a suitable growing climate. Plant fava bean seeds, after winter, once the soil has thawed and becomes workable, which should coincide with rising temperatures. If you live in a mild climate, fava beans can be planted in early fall and harvested during the winter. Plan ahead, though, as fava beans require 80 to 100 days in the soil before harvesting.

Indoors

• If you live in an area with a short growing season or a particularly harsh climate, fava beans can be started indoors and transplanted outside. Plant fava beans in individual pots during the fall, using multipurpose compost as a substitute for soil. The plants will need to be watered regularly and moved outdoors once spring arrives and the soil has softened. However, take care, when transplanting them, as the beans prefer not to be moved.