How to Keep Bean Seeds

Beans come in many different varieties and are a common addition to any garden. Bean seeds are usually bought at a local seed store and prepared for planting. However, there is an easy method to keep your own bean seeds to plant the following year. This makes for a more self-sustainable garden and saves money on annual seed purchases.

Bean plants
String or twine
Paper bags or glass canning jars

Instructions

- 1
  Allow the beans to fully mature and begin to dry on the bean plant. This will usually take four to six weeks from the time the beans are ready to eat.
- 2
  Gather several plants by pulling the entire bean plant out of the ground. Tie the root ends together with string or twine.
- 3
  Hang grouped plants upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area of the garden. It is important that the plants are not exposed to moisture.
- 4
  Harvest the seeds when they are brown and brittle. The pods should begin to crack open and the seeds inside should be hard.
- 5
  Remove the pods from the plants and shell the beans from the pods. Store the beans in paper bags and roll the tops closed to keep out moisture and insects.

Beans for Planting

How to Get Seeds From the Green Bean Plants

Growing Beans