Growing Lima Beans: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners
Lima beans are delicious, nutritious legumes that are easy to grow in home gardens. They come in both bush and vine varieties, and can be enjoyed fresh, canned, or frozen.
When to Plant Lima Beans
Lima beans are warm-season crops that should be planted after the last frost in your area. The ideal soil temperature for germination is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Choosing a Planting Site
Lima beans prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Amend the soil with compost or manure before planting to improve fertility and drainage.
Planting Lima Beans
Plant lima bean seeds 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart. If you are planting a vine variety, you will need to provide support for the plants as they grow. You can use poles, stakes, or tomato cages.
Watering and Fertilizing Lima Beans
Lima beans need about 1 inch of water per week. Water deeply, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize lima beans every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Harvesting Lima Beans
Bush lima beans will be ready to harvest in about 60 days, while vine varieties will take closer to 90 days. The pods should be bright green and firm when they are ready to be picked.
Storing Lima Beans
Fresh lima beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. You can also freeze lima beans for up to 6 months. To freeze lima beans, blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes, then cool them in ice water. Drain the beans and spread them on a baking sheet. Freeze the beans for 2 hours, then transfer them to freezer-safe bags.
Nutritional Benefits of Lima Beans
Lima beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals. One cup of cooked lima beans contains:
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 15 grams
- Fiber: 13 grams
- Iron: 4 milligrams
- Potassium: 500 milligrams
- Magnesium: 120 milligrams
- Vitamin C: 20 milligrams
Tips for Growing Lima Beans
- Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
- Plant lima beans after the last frost in your area.
- Water lima beans deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilize lima beans every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- Harvest lima beans when the pods are bright green and firm.
- Store lima beans in the refrigerator for up to 10 days, or freeze them for up to 6 months.
With a little care and attention, you can easily grow delicious and nutritious lima beans in your own garden.
