How to Start Lima Beans From Seed
Lima beans need a long stretch of warm weather, and their large seeds are normally planted directly in the garden. Bush and pole varieties have different spacing and support needs.
Start indoors or direct sow?
Direct sow lima beans because they resent transplanting and establish best without root disturbance. Use indoor starts only as a short-season backup, in biodegradable pots that can be planted intact.
When to start Lima Beans seeds
Direct sow 2 to 4 weeks after the last spring frost, when soil has warmed to at least 65°F. In cooler regions, wait until daytime weather is reliably warm rather than planting on the calendar alone.
How to sow the seeds
Sow seeds 1 to 1 1/2 inches deep in loose, well-drained soil. Space bush types about 4 to 6 inches apart and pole types about 6 inches apart, providing a trellis for pole varieties at planting time.
Germination
Seeds generally emerge in 7 to 14 days when soil is about 70 to 85°F. Maintain even moisture during germination, without letting the planting area stay soggy.
Seedling care
Provide full sun, regular deep watering, and a weed-free area while plants are young. Thin seedlings if needed, and water at soil level to keep foliage drier and reduce disease pressure.
Transplanting & hardening off
Direct sown, so no transplanting is needed. If using biodegradable pots, harden seedlings off briefly and set them out only after warm weather is established.
Tips
Do not soak seeds or plant into cold, wet soil, which can contribute to seed rot. For pole limas, install supports before seedlings begin to climb.
General seed-starting guidance for US home gardens; timing depends on your local frost dates and variety. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.