Beans grow best in well-drained garden soils with a pH above 6.0, in full sun. Direct sow when soil temp is above 65˚F. Plant seeds ½ to 1-inch deep and 2-inches apart. Thin to 4-inches apart. Pole-type beans will need support about 6-feet high (trellis, wire fence or bamboo poles work well) high. Bush-type beans may not need support. Harvest the beans for eating fresh when young and tender, about 4-6 inches long.
To save the seeds:
Let bean pods (actually the dehiscent fruits of the legume) fully mature and dry on the vine. Dry indoors for 2-3 weeks, then remove seeds.
Planting your saved seeds: Isolation distance needed to separate varieties that can cross pollinate for seed saving is 10-20 feet. Save seeds from 5-10 plants. If stored when completely dry in airtight, cold, dry conditions seeds can be viable for 3-4 years.
Drying (shelling) beans:
Beans grow best in well-drained garden soils with a pH above 6.0, in full sun. Direct sow when soil temp is above 65˚ F. Plant seeds ½ to1-inch deep and 2-inches apart. Thin to 4-inches apart. Pole-type beans will need support about 6-feet high (trellis, wire fence or bamboo poles work well) high. Bush-type beans may not need support.
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