Phaseolus lunatus "King of Garden"
For climates that can accommodate the long growing season of the lima bean, this is the one to get. Developed in 1883 by Frank Platt, it produces long flat 8” pods each with 4 large white seeds. Prolific and dependable producer.
Type: AnnualSun: Full
Planting Depth: 1”
Spacing: 3'
Water: Moderate
Days to Maturity/Bloom: 106 days
Height: 10'
Zones: 3-12
Planting Instructions
Type: AnnualSun: Full
Planting Depth: 1”
Spacing: 3'
Water: Moderate
Days to Maturity/Bloom: 106 days
Height: 10'
Zones: 3-12
Approx seeds per order 25
Shell beans may be grown to be eaten fresh or for drying.
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or plant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed. The soil needs to be above 55F. If beans are planted too late, they may have troubles as well. If the temperature during pod growth time is above 80F, they will not set.
Plant seeds in full sun and in rich, well-draining soil. Keep soil moist without getting soggy. Stake tall varieties so they don't fall over in windy or heavy rain conditions.
Beans may be harvested and eaten fresh before they dry out. Harvest and shell while the beans are plump and tender. The pods are not edible.Harvesting Shell BeansBecause they need time to dry in the pod, the growing season for dry beans is quite long. It ranges between 70-120 days.
The first frost of winter ends the growing season for beans. Dry beans are ready for harvesting when the pods have dried and the leaves have fallen off the plant.