How to Grow Lima Bean
Phaseolus lunatus
Lima beans need warmth above all — they will not germinate in cold soil and are killed by the lightest frost. Sow indoors in late spring or direct sow after all frost risk has passed and soil is at least 18°C. Space plants 15 cm apart in rows 60 cm wide. Keep soil evenly moist during flowering and pod fill but avoid waterlogging, which causes root rot. Harvest when pods are plump and bright green; for dried limas, leave pods on the plant until they rattle.
When to Start
Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures stay above 15°C and soil has warmed to at least 18°C.
Don't know your frost date? Find it here →
Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Rarely needed — lima beans fix their own nitrogen. A light liquid feed when pods begin to swell can help on poor soils.
- Lima beans will not germinate in cold soil — wait until soil temperature is reliably above 18°C before sowing. Regular harvesting of plump green pods keeps the plant producing; leaving pods to dry on the vine signals it to stop flowering.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 18°C+
- Germination temperature
- 18–30°C
- Direct sow
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 15 cm |
| Row spacing | 60 cm |
| Sow depth | 3 cm |
| Mature height | 200 cm |
| Mature spread | 30 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 18°C |
| Germination temperature | 18–30°C |
| Base growth temperature | 15°C |
| Min. daylength to start | 10h |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | short day |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Lima Bean?
- Plant Lima Bean 15cm apart with 60cm between rows.
- Is Lima Bean frost hardy?
- Lima Bean is classified as Tender.
