How to Grow Pigeon Beans

Select the right location for this crop. Pigeon beans most have a soil pH of 5.0 to 7.0, or lightly acidic to neutral, but also grow in alkaline soils. This plant is not particular about soil type and can withstand drought once established.

Turn over the soil with a spade to prepare for planting. Break apart soil clods and remove rocks, weeds and other matter from the garden site.

Dig a furrow 3/4 to 1 inch deep, and sow pigeon beans in the furrow, leaving 3 to 4 inches between seeds. Leave 40 inches between rows. Plant this crop when the soil has warmed, or at the start of rainy season to capitalize on natural irrigation.

Water the soil to wet it after planting, and continue to keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, typically in two to three weeks.

Thin the rows once the seeds germinate, leaving at least 12 inches between plants.

Weed the garden bed to keep it free from competition. Pigeon peas grow slowly for the first two to three months; weeding helps them receive all nutrients from the soil and water for strong growth. After this initial period, discontinue weeding because the pigeon peas will grow more rapidly.

Water the pigeon peas when the soil feels dry, adding liquid to moisten the soil. This crop doesn't require much water and can subsist on rainfall alone if water conservation is a priority.

Fertilize the plants if you desire, using a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10. Apply the right dose range for your garden bed. Traditionally, this crop is grown without fertilizer and does not need it.

Harvest your pigeon peas when the pods are green and round, for immature beans. Allow the pods to dry for dried beans, typically the preferred way to eat pigeon peas.