I never knew limas were so hard to shell. Does anyone have an easier way than just slicing one edge off and then popping open? Is it normal for the pods to be so tough? My potato vines have all died back, due to pest damage. I've been sneaking potatoes out here and there all summer, so I know I have a nice crop, but since the vines have died back early, should I dig the taters up now, or wait til after a frost. Will the potatoes start sprouting if I leave them in the ground? Thanks for the help.

-- glynnis in KY (gabbycab@msn.com), August 17, 2000

Answers

I hold the two ends and gently "twist". If the beans are mature the "seam" of it will break open and you can rake them out with your finger! I could show you better than tell you BUT!!!lol Let me know how this works for you.

-- Debbie T in N.C. (rdtyner@mindspring.com), August 17, 2000.

Once the potato vines have died back - go ahead and dig them. That's all you are going to get, and leaving them can only lead to deterioration. You can dig them before the vines die, and get a good crop, but once the vines are dead, it's time! GL!

-- Brad (Homefixer@SacoRiver.net), August 21, 2000.