key growing information

Growing Lima Beans From Seed

How to grow lima beans: warm soil for sowing, spacing, heat needs, harvest for fresh shelling and seeding rates.

By Hensley’s Seed Co. September 3, 2026

Lima Bean - Key Growing Information

The pods of this developing lima bean vine in our greenhouse will soon fill out and satisfy our cravings.

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Phaseolus lunatus

CULTURE:

Wait until the soil reaches at least 75°F (24°C), then plant 1" deep and about 3" apart in rows 18–36" apart.

HARVEST:

For fresh shelling, pick once the pods are full and the beans bulge inside.

NOTE:

Limas need more heat than ordinary bush beans and yield poorly in a cool summer. They germinate best with soil near 85°F (29°C) and grow best in air temperatures of 70–80°F (21–27°C), so give them a warm spot with good drainage.

AVG. SEEDING RATE:

About 1 lb. per 100', 10 lb. per 1,000', or 145 lb. per acre with rows 3' apart.

SEED SPECS:

SEEDS/LB.: 430.

PACKET:

50 seeds per packet, enough for about 13'.