Mung bean
Vigna radiata · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant mung bean: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Summer (June to September)
- Adult size
- 0.30 to 0.60 m in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Tender (annual in temperate climate)
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, fertile
- Exposure
- Full sun
Care
Exposure
Mung bean thrives in full sun, with a minimum of 6 to 8 hours of direct daily sunlight. This exposure stimulates vigorous growth and flower production. In very hot climates, light afternoon shade can prevent water stress.
Watering
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during growth and flowering. Avoid excessive watering which promotes fungal diseases. During dry periods, watering two to three times per week is generally sufficient.
Soil
Choose well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Enriching with compost or well-decomposed manure before planting improves soil structure and nutrient retention. Overly compacted soil hinders root development.
Fertilizing
Mung bean, being a legume, fixes atmospheric nitrogen through its symbiotic bacteria. Moderate balanced fertilizer at the start of vegetation is sufficient; avoid excess nitrogen which reduces fruiting. Potassium fertilizing promotes pod quality.
Pruning and training
No pruning is necessary. The naturally bushy habit mainly requires good spacing between plants (15 to 20 cm) to ensure proper air circulation. Remove spent flowers to extend flowering and stimulate production.
Diseases and pests
Watch for powdery mildew and root rot if humidity is excessive. Aphids and whiteflies can also colonize leaves; maintain good hygiene and aerate regularly. Crop rotation limits pathogen accumulation in the soil.
Did you know?
Mung bean is a major crop in South Asia, where its young sprouts are eaten raw in salads and its seeds are cooked in countless traditional dishes. In the West, it is mainly known by its English name "mung bean" and represents a valuable and easily cultivated protein source for the vegetable garden. This humble plant has nourished civilizations for millennia and remains today a cornerstone of global plant-based nutrition.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.