Find a soil site that receives plenty of sunlight.
Amend heavy soils with organic matter a few weeks before you plant castor beans. As noted by the Purdue Department of Horticulture, castor beans aren't too picky about the pH of the soil, but they do need good drainage conditions. Incorporate the organic matter thoroughly into the top 3 or 4 inches of the soil.
Soak the beans in water for 24 hours before you plant them. Soaking helps the seeds germinate faster after you plant them.
Plant the castor bean seeds in the spring. Castor beans need 140 to 180 days of warm temperatures to become established. Cover the beans with 1 to 3 inches of soil.
Water the soil thoroughly and keep it moist during the germination period. Castor beans usually emerge within 14 to 21 days.