How to Germinate Lima Bean Seeds for Kids

Soak the lima bean seeds in a bowl of room-temperature water overnight.

Instruct the children to rub the seed coat off the lima bean by placing it between their fingers. Apply a slight pressure onto the line with the fingernail to break the lima bean seed open.

Allow the children to examine the inside of the lima bean. A magnifying glass may help everyone see the insides so they can locate the cotyledon and the embryo. The embryo appears as a small plant that contains roots, stems and leaves. The cotyledons are the first leaves that push through the soil. They store food for the lima bean plant.

Plant whole lima bean seeds after the children learn about the inside of the seeds. Line the inside of a glass jar with dark construction paper, and then fill it with soil or crumpled paper towels.

Insert three to four soaked lima bean seeds along the side of the jar so they are between the construction paper and glass. Moisten the soil or paper towels with enough water to saturate the growing seed.

Place the lima beans in a warm, sunny location. Continue to water the soil or paper towels so the inside of the jar remains moist.

Examine the lima beans daily so the children can see the seeds crack and the roots emerge. Instruct the children to point out any differences they may notice.