Seed germination rate should be 80 percent or greater. Like any other commercial crop, the exact planting date for limas is determined by the projected marketing schedule. If the limas are grown for the fresh market, market demand and your ability to harvest and transport the produce during the projected harvest season will determine the best planting date. Check with your processor to schedule optimum planting dates. Do not plant lima beans until the soil warms up in the spring and the danger of frost is over.
Cool temperatures can also delay maturity by a week or more.
Irrigate after planting to obtain a uniform stand. The seeding rate will depend on seed size, desired spacing, and percent of germination. If poles are to be used, plant four to five seeds in hills 12 to 14 inches apart. After the stand is established, thin the plants to leave two to four plants per hill. Nematodes Root-knot nematodes can severely damage lima beans.