Black Beans, a.k.a Black Turtle Beans

Andrew planted Black Beans in one of the beds left vacant after the potato dig.  We didn't know if they'd have enough time to mature, but figured they'd make a good cover crop no matter what.  I don't know the first thing about growing Black Beans (easy-peasy, like any other bean) or harvesting them.  I wondered if they're ever eaten green.  But then, they'd be "green" beans!  The plants are setting fruit now, and I figured it was time to read up.  Here's what I found:


"Black beans grow best when planted later in spring. In fact, warm weather helps these beans grow faster, and the rains of early summer strengthen the plant. And as summer builds, the hot, dry conditions are great for drying black beans in their pods on the plant.


To support your beans as they grow, offer a 3-foot-tall structure for them. When the bean pods begin to fill out, water your plants only if needed and allow the pods to dry out in the summer sun. Harvest your beans after the pods have dried completely and the beans have turned black. If you pick a few and find the beans are still white and the pods are moist, allow them to dry further before harvesting the rest. When they’re ready for picking, crack open the pods to remove the beans, and spread them on a flat surface to dry for another day or two. After that, place the beans in a container in a cool, dry place and use as needed."


From:  http://www.learn2grow.com/gardeningguides/edibles/vegetables/BlackBeanFiesta.aspx