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Article: Full of Beans; Considering the Many Virtues of the Lovely Legume
- Article from:
- The Washington Post
- Article date:
- April 13, 1995
- Author:
CopyrightThis material is published under license from the Washington Post. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Washington Post. (Hide copyright information)
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Whether it's the nutty pods of string beans or the nutrient-rich
and buttery seeds of other varieties, the bean is cherished for its
versatility and tastiness.
The bean feeds the eye and the soil as well, in its amazing range
of colors and in its ability, as a legume, to replenish the earth.
After the beans are harvested, the crop continues to put nitrogen
into the soil through its roots, nourishing succeeding crops.
What's more, beans are incredibly easy to grow: Last spring, my 3-
year-old brought home a lima bean she'd sprouted in a styrofoam cup
as part of a pre-school garden project. She planted the sturdy little
seedling in the garden; within six weeks, the vines from the single
plant ...