Beans grow best in well-drained garden soils with pH above 6.0, in full sun. Direct sow when soil temp is above 65˚ F. Plant seeds 1-inch deep and 2-inches apart. Thin to 4-inches apart. Pole beans need support (trellis, wire fence or bamboo poles work well) 6 feet high. Harvest when beans are 12-15 inches.
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.
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