Drying beans for seed involves allowing the pods to mature and dry naturally on the plant, followed by further drying indoors to ensure optimal preservation.
Key Steps for Drying Beans for Seed
To successfully dry beans for seed using the methods described in the reference, follow these primary stages:
- Allow Pods to Dry on the Plant: The first step is crucial – let the bean pods mature and dry while still attached to the plant. This natural drying process is essential for seed viability.
- Harvest Dried Pods: Once the pods are visibly dry and brittle on the plant, pick the beans from the plants. You will typically shell the beans from these dry pods.
- Further Drying Indoors: After picking the beans (or the pods, if you prefer to shell later), it is important to dry further indoors. This step helps reduce moisture content to a safe level for storage, preventing mold and spoilage.
Dealing with Frost
Timing is critical when saving beans for seed. It is imperative to be sure to harvest all the pods before frost. Frost can damage the seeds and reduce their viability.
Contingency Plan for Early Frost
If the pods are not dry before the first frost, do not despair! You can still save your seeds. The reference suggests a practical solution:
- Pull the whole plants: Instead of just picking pods, carefully pull up the entire bean plants, roots and all.
- Let them dry further indoors: Bring the whole plants indoors to complete the drying process in a protected environment.
- Hanging Method: One effective method for drying whole plants indoors is to tie the plants together, and let them hang from the ceiling. A basement or garage can be an ideal location for this, provided it is dry and has good air circulation.
Summary of the Process
Here is a simplified overview based on the reference:
| Stage | Action on Plant | Action Indoors | Important Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary | Let pods dry on plant. | After picking dry pods, dry beans further indoors. | Harvest before frost. |
| Frost Contingency | If pods not dry before frost, pull whole plants. | Dry whole plants indoors (e.g., hang them). | Act before frost hits. |
By following these steps, you can effectively dry your bean harvest for use as seeds in future planting seasons.
