Saskatchewan pulse growers are increasingly being recognized as world leaders in pulse research and industry development. Here is a brief overview of the main crops. The pinto is the most commonly produced bean in North America and constitutes 40 percent of annual production. It is interesting to note that in Saskatchewan, it was a popular crop in the 1920's and 1930's but later vanished as a viable crop. It has recently become popular once again and, according to the Saskatchewan Pulse Growers Association, it is once again on the rise with 4000 acres of dry beans grown annually.
Dry beans are extremely sensitive to frost and thus the growing season is quite limited.
Maturing seeds need 90-120 days for optimal growth. Dry bean growers must be careful to avoid cool weather in the spring and fall. The two main types of chickpeas are kabuli and desi. Kabuli chickpeas are large, round and cream in colour. The larger the seed, the higher the price paid.