While we previously discussed the types of peas that are available, we need to address the types of beans there are. It’s pretty simple! There are three main types:
Snap Beans:  The bean and pod are edible. They typically mature quickly. The most famous type of snap bean is a green bean.
Shell Beans:  The beans are shelled from the pod and eaten fresh.  They are ready to be shelled when the pod starts to change color but are NOT dried out. Also, the beans are plump inside.
Dried Beans: The beans are shelled from the pod when the beans and the pod are dried. Once the beans are mature, you can leave them on the plant to dry or harvest the pods and let them dry out inside your house in a warm room.
You should always read the seed packet as the good seed companies will tell you the stage that the bean will taste the best! Keep in mind that some shell and dried beans can be harvested as green beans. Also, most dried beans can be harvested as shell beans. For instance, you can harvest soybeans and fava beans as shell or dried beans.
