Castor bean plants, sometimes called mole plants because they repel moles, are actually a lovely perennial that grows quickly. In fact, some can grow up to 10 feet by summer's end. Be careful when picking castor beans, however, since their seeds are somewhat toxic. Be sure to wear gloves when handling and storing and keep castor bean seeds away from children. By harvesting the seeds the right way (best done in the fall), you'll ensure an abundant crop next year. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Put your gloves on and carefully cut a castor bean seed pod off the tree. Seed pods are ready for picking when they turn dark and lose their moistness. They will appear almost leathery. Don't wait until after the first real frost to pick your beans.
2. Take the pod apart by hand in its three sections. Each section will contain one seed. Remove the outer covering gently and find the bean seeds. Discard the remaining parts.
3. Dry your seeds for five days prior to storage. You don't need to use the container yet. Remember they are toxic so must be stored in a safe place where pets and kids won't find and touch them.
4. After five days place the beans into the sealed container. Ensure proper levels of dryness by placing 10 grains of rice into the container.
5. Keep the container with the bean seeds somewhere cool, dark and dry. Use a drawer or cabinet out of reach of young people. Don't forget where you put them so come spring you can plant your castor bean seeds for a bumper crop.
Tags: bean seeds, bean seeds, castor bean, castor bean seeds, five days