Next years runner beans!.

[silverback]

We have had a good crop of runner beans this year, some of the beans are still on the plant, which is dying off now, and they have gone to seed. Can I use these seeds for next years crop?, if so how long do I leave them on the plant for, and do I need to de-seed the pods and dry them out?..

[Mo]

We sometimes leave a pod on the plant till it is dry. Then use it next year.

[silverback]

Thanks Mo ..

[fabindia]

In the past, I have left loads on the plant and let them dry. They dry quite nicely and we've used them in winter soups.

[jemberelli]

I have saved loads of dwarf beans that I left to dry on the plants in the hope that they will germinate next year! Fingers crossed!

[fabindia]

I have saved loads of dwarf beans that I left to dry on the plants in the hope that they will germinate next year! Fingers crossed!

Should do, that's why plants flower and produce seeds

[p.penn]

Last year my beans were left on the plant before they dropped onto the ground and the pods decomposed during the winter. In April, my grandchildren took it into their heads to collect the seeds up and bury all of them in one 12" hole (with absolutely no instruction from me!) and would you believe it, they germinated! I stuck a wigwam over them and have had the best crop I have ever had!

I have left some beans on the plant for next year, but may collect the seeds in this time