Requirements for Lima Bean Seed Germination

Soil Needs

• Lima beans need well-drained soil with a temperature of at least 65 degrees F in order to germinate. These beans grow best in sandy or loamy soil that has a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. Keep soil moist, but not wet, as you wait for the seeds to sprout. Also make sure a crust does not form on the surface of the soil, as that will interfere as your seedlings try to emerge. To help prevent crusting, as well as retain moisture, you can spread light mulch over your garden rows.

  The beans grow best when the weather stays between 70 and 80 degrees F. In addition, they require about an inch of water per week. Soil temperature is important because cold, overly damp soil can cause rotting in the seeds or a damping-off of the seedling after it comes up.

Special Requirements

• To increase germination rates, consider treating Lima bean seeds with an anti-fungal agent. Large beans store large quantities of carbohydrates, which attract certain fungi and bacteria.

  Storage methods of your Lima bean seeds also affect the germination chances of your beans. If your seed is "hard," it has become too dry while in storage and chances of germination decrease. To ensure that your seed moisture content stays high enough, store seeds in places with temperatures around 77 degrees F. Do not plant any broken seeds, as that increases the chances of disease and insect damage.

Sowing and Germination

• As you prepare to sow your Lima bean seeds, space rows about 36 to 42 inches apart. Before planting, verify that the soil temperature stands at about 65 degrees F. Plant the seeds 1 to 1 ½ inches deep and 2 to 3 inches apart. If you have chosen to plant pole Lima beans, space rows 42 to 60 inches apart and seeds 6 to 8 inches.

  You can also germinate Lima beans indoors using a covered tray and pushing seed an inch down into the soil. Once the seedlings reach 4-6 inches, you can then transplant them into a prepared space in your garden. Your beans will be harvest ready 65 to 75 days after planting.