Project Introducing Faba Bean as Mid-Atlantic Crop

A multi-state initiative led by Virginia Tech is seeking to introduce the faba bean as a sustainable fall and winter crop in the mid-Atlantic region. The $2.7 million project is funded by USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Specialty Crops Research Initiative. The faba bean, also known as the fava bean or broad bean, is a cool-season legume recognized for its high protein and performance as a cover crop. Researchers say the faba bean is a versatile and resilient crop that fits into winter production system conditions in the mid-Atlantic states. This project will also work to improve varieties to better meet consumers’ desires.