GardenHow to grow cluster beans (gwar)
ग्वार फली. When to sow it in each part of India, how deep, how far apart, what size of pot, and what to watch for.
When to sow
North and central plainsFebruary and March, June and July
South and coastal IndiaFebruary and March, June and July
HillsNot suited
Green months are the usual sowing or planting time. Dates shift by a few weeks from place to place.
How to sow and grow
- Method
- Sow the seed straight where the plant will grow.
- Depth
- 2 cm
- Spacing
- 15 to 20 cm apart
- In a pot
- Three plants in a pot 30 cm wide and deep
- Sprouts in
- 4 to 8 days
- Harvest
- 50 to 60 days
- Sun
- Full sun: at least 6 hours a day
Tips from the garden
- Gwar is a crop of hot, dry places. It needs full sun and little water once established.
- Pick the pods young and often, in clusters, before they turn stringy.
- It is not suited to the hills or to cool, wet weather.
What can go wrong
In very wet weather the plants rot at the base. Grow it where water drains away fast.
Sown around the same time
New to growing from seed? Read how to sow seeds and the balcony and terrace garden guide.
Questions people ask
When is cluster beans sown in north India?
In the plains of north and central India, the usual sowing or planting months for cluster beans are February and March, June and July.
How long does cluster beans take to grow?
Usually 50 to 60 days.
Can cluster beans be grown in a pot?
Yes. Three plants in a pot 30 cm wide and deep.