Technical leaflet: organic faba bean cultivation

This tool is a complete guide for organic faba bean cultivation in France. First, faba beans role in the crop rotation is discussed, then the main varieties (winter and spring) are described to allow growers to adapt production to local conditions and objectives. Specifics data are provided to compare the potential of each variety (size, yield, protein content of grain etc.). The possibility of using the varieties as animal feeding are given, with advice for different kind of animals (monogastric or ruminant). Every step of cultivation is detailed: sowing (density, date, depth), fertilisation, weeding, crop protection (pests and diseases) and harvesting. Some economics elements are provided to allow comparisons of faba with other crops. \nThe tool is aimed at organic farmers and farmers advisors, specifically in France, and specifies the fundamentals for introducing faba bean into organic cropping systems.