How do I deter an animal (rabbit, vole?) from eating the new bean leaves?
Here are some articles that you may find helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/camouflage-gardening-deterring-garden-crashers-pests.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/how-to-keep-rabbits-out-of-gardens.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/vole-control.htm
Why have my French beans got curly pods?
There's doesn't seem to be a definitive answer for this but some varieties are more prone to curling pods than others, French and runner beans being the most affected. Environmental conditions are the most likely the cause with temperature fluctuations most prevalent. Other factors such as uneven rainfall and trace element deficiencies are also possible.
My tomatoes have developed a serious red spider mite infestation. I had planned to do a cover crop of beans over the winter (I'm in Southern California) but can't seem to find whether or not the mites would bother the beans. If so, is there any crop I can plant over the winter? If not, can I cover the cleared area and place clear plastic over it to rid the area of the little buggers?
If the mites are attacking the tomatoes, they will likely attack your beans. You can solarize the area (the covering of plastic you suggested) though I would leave it on until the end of spring, or you can treat the area with an organic miticide like neem oil.
I have taken some beans out of the pods of green beans. There are some that are small and some that are quite a bit bigger. Which ones do I dry out to use for next year?
The size of the bean seeds doesn't really make any difference as long as the ones that you choose are healthy looking. Small ones produce just as well as the larger seeds. Also, to ensure you have enough and that at least one bean seed produces, remember the rule of three when planting (three seeds per hole). With this in mind, you may be able to use all of your bean seeds, planting both small and larger ones together.
This is the first year I planted hard beans. I planted 7 different kinds. I planted some Jacob's Cattle beans and picked some that had dry outer shells. Some of the beans I shelled the outer pods were on the yellow side and the outer pod was not completely dry and a few of the outer pods were still green. I have each of these separated and I am wondering if these are still ok to eat or should I be throwing them out? Does anyone know? I've read somewhere that the outer pods should be completely dry -- but how long after the pods are dry is it safe to shell them?
They are fine to eat. Waiting for the pod to dry just helps to dry the bean itself. You can either eat the beans fresh or place them in a warm dry place to complete drying.
What side of the bean faces up?
When planting seeds, there's no certain direction necessary, as the roots and top growth know which way to go.
Can I grow bush beans in self-watering containers? My area is small and I would like to grow beans on the patio. I grew some tomatoes, which came out great. Success came from local florist who said to use 1/8 Miracle Gro in the two quart milk bottles. I watered them every day and stalks were extremely large with many tomatoes. Now am interested in beans.
You can. This article may help as well with growing beans in containers: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/beans/growing-beans-in-containers.htm