How to Grow Lima Beans

Despite being distinct from the common bean, lima beans grow in a similar manner. Some varieties of lima beans are vining crops that require trellising, while others have a bushy habit and can be planted without support.
Lima beans can be directly sown outside after the risk of frost has passed, just like other beans.
Requirements for Space Plant seeds 2 inches apart and 1 inch deep. Plant rows 24 to 36 inches apart.
Special considerations Some lima beans have a tendency to climb, so they will require trellising. On the other hand, there are bush beans that do not require a lot of support. Before you plant your bean in your garden, find out how it grows.

Pests and diseases that are common Lima beans can get a lot of different diseases. Grow your beans in different parts of the garden each year because some of these diseases can live in the soil for years. Work outside of your bean patch when the foliage is wet to stop the spread of bacterial and fungal diseases. Pick the leaves off your plants and put them in a jar of soapy water to get rid of bugs and beetles that might eat them. To stop diseases and pests from continuing their life cycles, promptly remove and compost mature plants.

When and How to Harvest Lima Beans Lima beans can be harvested either during the dry or shelling stages. Shelling limas can be harvested once the beans have plumped and the pods have changed color, but before the pods and seeds have dried. When the pods are dry and brittle and the seeds inside are hard, dry lima beans are ready for harvest.
Lima beans can be consumed as dry beans or as baby limas when harvested early. Adding baby limas to stir fries and succotash is a great idea. Mature lima beans, also known as butter beans, have the same versatility as dry beans and can be used in a variety of dishes, including stews, soups, pasta, and more.