Want to start raising edible beans in the Midwest? If you're a soybean farmer, you probably have the equipment and machinery you need to make it work. But, when it comes to harvesting the beans, there are unique factors to consider before you jump in..

Many types of edible beans are grown in bush-type plants, making it possible to harvest them with a soybean header. "Flexible cutter bars are helpful in getting closer to the soil, since dry beans tend to have pods very close to the ground. Rotary combines reportedly do a good job with dry beans," according to a report from the Columbia, Missouri-based Thomas Jefferson Agricultural Institute. "There are specialized dry bean combines available that have two cylinders made to get good seed cleaning without seed breakage."

Harvesting beans at around 18% moisture is ideal. Set the cylinder to run between 300 to 450 rpm, slower if the beans are a little on the dry side. Sieve settings, according to the Jefferson Institute, should be set at 7/16 of an inch, and concaves should be set 1/2 inch at the front and 1/4 inch at the back. "The combine's operating manual may have suggestions on settings for dry beans," according to a Jefferson Institute report. "If beans are cut when the pods are getting really dry, seed shatter can become a problem. Cutting at night or when a dew is on can help reduce shattering."

Moisture concerns shouldn't end once the beans are in the bin. And, handle with care. "Seeds should be stored at about 15 to 16% moisture. When handling, a belt conveyer is recommended over a metal auger to reduce seed damage," the report adds. "Seeds should be handled gently and not dumped from heights onto concrete or hard surfaces. Careful handling may be more time consuming but will pay off in the price received for a quality bean product."