Mixed Dry Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris)
8
Saved (StellaLou Farm, Cochranville, PA)
Life Cycle
Annual
Category
Pack Date
Vegetable (Bean)
2021
Requirements
Don’t plant too early; cold conditions prevent good bean germination. In late spring, when nights are securely above 55°F (13°C), sow seeds in well worked, fertile soil in full sun. Poke seeds in 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart in rows 1 1/2 to 2 feet apart. If first sowing comes up unevenly, replant right away; new seedlings catch up quickly.
Seed Saving
When the beans are hard and smooth inside dry and leathery pods, harvest the whole crop at once, or, if frost or excessive rain threatens, pull entire plants and finish drying in a sheltered spot. Shell out the completely dry beans by hand or put whole pods in a pillowcase and whack it on the ground to “spill the beans” from pods, or shell by hand. Make sure they are dried completely before storing in cool dry place.
Additional Info
Bush bean. This mix comes from an assortment of beans originally purchased by StellaLou Farm, saved, and replanted, and resaved! The mix is a representation of the dry beans that did best in our local climate!
You can use these beans as you would dry beans from the store, but you will find due to their freshness, the texture is much creamier and more pleasant. A great staple for the winter months, a favorite in soups!