Topic: Problem with broad bean seeds

[Squash64]

We had a good crop of broad beans this year and decided to save some of
the seeds to grow again.  When my husband checked them today he noticed
that some seeds had tiny holes  and there was a small beetle inside.

Should we throw them away, or will they still be alright to sow?

[Flighty]

Throw them away as they either won't germinate or, at best, produce weak seedlings.

[Silverleaf]

If the seeds are completely dry, you can put them in the freezer for a few days to kill any remaining bugs/eggs.

I don't know for sure, but I'd guess that as long as the radicle isn't damaged your seeds will still germinate okay... you could try testing them now and see what happens.

[galina]

This can also happen with French Beans where it is far more damaging.

As Silverleaf said - stick them in the freezer for 2 days and beetles and eggs will be killed.  When dry put the beans in a well sealed container (like a sauce jar) and add a sachet of silica gel if you have it (the little sachets that are found in new shoe boxes and handbags etc).  You can also add a spoonful of dry rice which does the same job.

This is a very common problem in broad beans and it does not usually affect germination or the new plants, because the holes are small compared to the whole bean size.  The bean you see turns into the seed leaves which sustain the plant in its early stages after germination.  And there is still a lot left to do that before the roots take over and feed the new plant.

[Squash64]

Thank you for all the comments and suggestions.

I'll tell hubby to freeze them, but after speaking to an entomologist (yes, we do have one on our site!)
this morning I don't think I will be eating broad beans again! He said that the eggs will have been laid
and the grubs found their way into the bean while they were still on the plant.  So long before there
are visible signs like a hole, or a black beetle trying to find its way out, they are still grubs/eggs in the
beans.  Yuk!!  Even if I wasn't a vegetarian I still wouldn't want to be eating eggs and grubs!

(maybe I shouldn't have asked in the first place, lol)

[Silverleaf]

It's a risk with any vegetable, I guess.

[lezelle]

How interesting. I have seed from suppliers with little holes in them and have always been advised to throw them away. I didn't realise you could freeze and then resow them either. Will give it atry when required. Did the entomologist give the beetle a name?