Lima Bean

Growing

These beans are vigorous climbers or trailers, so provide a sturdy trellis or support structure once the seedlings are established to carry their weight. Prepare the garden with slightly acidic soil at a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Sow only once the soil has warmed and the danger of frost has passed, as even a light frost will kill the plants.

Check the foliage during cool, humid weather, as these conditions can invite downy mildew or leaf spot diseases that cause necrotic tan or reddish spots. Two-spotted spider mites prefer lima beans over many other garden crops; if you notice webbing or damage, treat the infestation early. To protect young seedlings from seed corn maggots or cutworms, keep the planting site well-tended.

Harvest beans when they are fully developed, as they do not continue to ripen once removed from the vine. Pick them ready to use and avoid washing them before storage. To preserve the harvest, blanch the beans before freezing to maintain their flavor and texture.