You can but you don't have to. It just depends on how crispy you want them. Some prefer it, others do not as the beans are more firm to begin with than cukes are. So all you can do is try some with and some without and see which you prefer.

Dave

Dave,
Thanks alot! I'll try both ways. Your reply was just in time. Water's all heated, jars are hot, everythings ready to go.
Thanks again.
Helen