Farm: It's Not Worth a Hill of Beans

farm was a yearly payment made as a tax or rent.

hedge.

hedging to describe steps that could be taken to protect against financial loss.

hedging his bet when he invests in several different kinds of businesses.  One business may fail, but likely not all.

make hay while the sun shines.

not worth a hill of beans.  The expression is often used today.

altogether not worth a bean.