Dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is an ancient crop domesticated by Indigenous peoples of Central and South America. It is now grown in subtropical and temperate areas throughout the world, and during the cool, dry season in tropical areas.
As a relatively short-season crop, it is highly influenced by temperature. It has little frost tolerance and must be planted in late spring in Saskatchewan. Maturing bean plants do not have tolerance to early-fall frosts either, so the crop has a relatively narrow growing-season range.
"Dry" bean refers to the end product: dry edible seeds.
The dry bean has quite a few varieties, and subsequently many seeding, protection, and harvesting considerations. You can also read more about the marketing of the dry bean on the Production and Marketing page.