How to Save Bean Seeds
Saving bean seed from an existing garden for planting the following year has its benefits, and is a cinch to do. Saving seed is a way to cut costs and always have the variety of beans you want in your garden. As long as the beans are not a hybrid, the saved seed will make plants true to the original type of bean. Hybrid beans, while the seed can be saved and replanted, may revert to an entirely different type of bean plant the next year. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Bean plants with bean pods
- Newspaper
- Envelopes
- Scissors
- Cotton muslin
- String
- Dry-milk powder
- Glass jars with tight-fitting lids
Instructions
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1
Allow the bean pods to dry on the plant until you can rattle the beans inside the pod by shaking the pods on the vine.
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2
Pick the bean pods. Lay them out on newspaper in a dry, well-ventilated area to complete the drying process.
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3
Shell the bean seed out of the pods by breaking the pods apart at the seam.
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4
Place the beans in envelopes and seal. Label the envelopes with the type of bean seed inside.
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5
Cut 12-inch squares of cotton muslin. An old sheet or pillowcase will work as well. Place up to a half cup of dry-milk powder in the center of the cotton square. Pull up the corners and tie securely with the string.
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6
Place the milk-powder ball in the bottom of a glass jar. Place the bean seed envelopes in the jar on top of the ball.
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7
Close the jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store in a cool, dry place. If you have refrigerator space available, that is the perfect environment for the bean seed.
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Tips & Warnings
The milk powder serves as a desiccant for the seeds and draws away moisture. This in turn, helps to keep the seed dry and prevents sprouting. Bean seed can also be stored in the freezer if you have space. Allow them to reach room temperature before planting. If you save desiccant packages from other purchases throughout the year, they can be used for seed storage instead of powdered milk. Dried beans can be cooked by soaking in water overnight and then boiling for several hours. Add any desired seasonings during the cooking process.
