Lima Bean Seeds, Kurzer's Calico Traveler

star-filled
3.8
5 Reviews
Sku:
#LB110
Min. seed count:
15
$3.50

Description

(Phaseolus lunatus) Pole bean. Plump Limas develop in speckled shades of burgundy, purple, tan, and brown. The variety apparently originated in Choctaw, Mississippi. We received our foundation stock from Doug Kurzer of Michigan, where Doug has grown them for a number of years. Short half-runner type vines are productive in southern Michigan, and we believe they would be even more so where the season is longer.

  • 90 days
  • Pole
  • Sprouts: 5 - 8 days
  • Ideal Temp: 70 - 90
  • Seed Depth: 1 - 1 1/2"
  • Plant Spacing: 6"
  • Frost Hardy: No
  • Full Sun

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

Kurzer's Calico Traveler Lima beans are a bush variety that can be grown successfully in various climates, especially suitable for northern gardens. Ensure they receive full sun for optimal growth and yield. Ideally they should grow between 75-85 F.

When to Grow

Plant Kurzer's Calico Traveler Lima beans in the spring, approximately 3-4 weeks after the last frost, or start them indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost. Lima beans are typically ready to harvest around 90 days after planting​. To find the appropriate planting and harvest times for your specific area, check your local frost dates using a tool like the USDA Hardiness Zone Map.

How to Sow and Plant

Soil Preparation: Choose well-draining, fertile soil, and work it to a loose texture. Enrich with compost or well-rotted manure.
Planting: Directly sow seeds 1-1.5 inches deep in rows 24-36 inches apart. Space plants 6 inches apart. If using containers, ensure they are at least 1 foot wide and deep with good drainage​​.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, then water deeply but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to avoid root rot​​.

How to Grow

Provide full sun with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Maintain even soil moisture, particularly during flowering and pod development to prevent flower and pod drop. Generally, no extra fertilizer is needed. Side dress with compost mid-season if desired. Protect from frost and extreme cold​​.

How to Save

  • Limas are a self-pollinating annual, but insects can cause accidental cross pollination between different Lima bean varieties. In order to prevent any chance of accidental crossing, separate different varieties for saving by 500 feet.
  • To save seed, allow pods to dry and become brittle. The seeds inside should be very hard, so you cannot dent them with a fingernail.
  • If expecting rain or frost, you can pull mostly dried pods and dry them further indoors.
  • Store in a cool, dark, dry place.

FAQ

Can I grow Kurzer's Calico Traveler Lima beans in containers?
Yes, use containers that are at least 1 foot wide and deep with ample drainage. Ensure they get full sun and regular watering.

Do I need to support Kurzer's Calico Traveler Lima beans?
Yes, pole beans require support or trellising. 

How do I know when to harvest Kurzer's Calico Traveler Lima beans?
Lima beans mature all at once. Can be harvested when fresh and green or when dried. Pluck pods from the vine when just plump for fresh shelled Limas or allow to dry on the plant for dried beans. Ready to harvest approximately 90 days after planting.

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Lima Bean Seeds, Kurzer's Calico Traveler
star-filled
3.8
Customer reviews (5)

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