How to Grow Lima Bean

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated January 15, 2026 Sources

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Amazon True Leaf

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Supplies You'll Need

Raised Garden Bed Vegetable Garden Soil Hand Trowel Set Watering Can

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Phaseolus lunatus

Category vegetable

Type Bush

Days to Maturity 75 days

Starting Method Direct Sow

Growing Requirements

Sun

Full Sun (6-8 hours)

Water

Regular (1 inch/week)

Spacing

6" apart

Depth

1" deep

Height

18-24"

Germination

7-14 days

Ready to Grow Lima Bean?

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Good Companions

CornSquash Cucumber Carrot

Avoid Planting Near

Onion Garlic Fennel

Full Companion Planting Guide for Lima Bean

See which plants help Lima Bean thrive, which to keep away, and raised bed layout tips →

Seed Saving Guide

Easy

Open-pollinated — seeds grow true to parent

When to Harvest Seed

Allow pods to dry and turn brown on the vine before picking.

Processing

Shell dried pods, cure seeds on screen for 2 weeks, then store in a cool dry place.

Seed Viability

Up to 4 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.

Pro Tip

Lima beans self-pollinate before the flower opens — easy to keep varieties pure.

Seed Storage Supplies

Seed Envelopes Mylar Storage Bags Silica Gel Packets Seed Organizer

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Raised Bed Planting Guides

A 4×8 bed fits 4 per sq ft of Lima Bean. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →

Lima Bean Planting Calendar by Zone

Lima Bean Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Lima Bean? +

Sow Lima Bean seeds directly in the garden 0 weeks before your last frost date. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

How long does Lima Bean take to grow? +

Lima Bean typically matures in about 75 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Lima Bean indoors or direct sow? +

Lima Bean does best when direct sown outdoors. Plant seeds directly in the garden at the appropriate time based on your local frost dates.

How much sun does Lima Bean need? +

Lima Bean requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Lima Bean? +

Space Lima Bean plants 6 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Lima Bean need? +

Lima Bean has regular (1 inch/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Lima Bean? +

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Lima Bean is rated easy. Allow pods to dry and turn brown on the vine before picking. Shell dried pods, cure seeds on screen for 2 weeks, then store in a cool dry place.

How long do Lima Bean seeds last in storage? +

Properly dried and stored Lima Bean seeds remain viable for up to 4 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Are Lima Bean seeds open-pollinated? +

Yes — Lima Bean is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.

About Lima Bean

Buttery, heat-loving bean that needs warm soil to germinate. Direct sow after last frost when soil is 65°F+. Fixes nitrogen in soil.

Expect your Lima Bean to be ready for harvest in approximately 75 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.