Lima Bean Seeds, Alabama Blackeyed Butterbean

Sku:
#LB107
Minimum seed count:
20
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$3.50

Description

Pole bean. A delicious Alabama heirloom butterbean. We received this seed from a customer whose family has passed the seeds down for many generations. This bean is quite vigorous and will need trellising. Technically a Lima bean, this creamy white bean is traditionally grown in Alabama and referred to there as a butterbean.

  • 8-12 hours of Sun
  • Sprouts in 5-8 Days
  • Ideal Temperature: 70-90 Degrees F
  • Seed Depth: 1-1 1/2"
  • Plant Spacing: 6"
  • Frost Hardy: No
  • Phaseolus lunatus

Growing Tips

To grow Alabama Blackeyed butterbean, ensure you plant them in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. These beans thrive in full sun, 8-12 hours daily, and need a stable support structure due to their vigorous vining nature. Consistent moisture is crucial, especially during flowering and pod formation. Mulch can help retain soil moisture and control weeds.

When to Grow

Plant Alabama Blackeyed butterbeans after the last frost when soil temperatures are consistently above 60 F, ideally between 70-90 F. For regions with short growing seasons, start the seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost date and transplant them outside once the danger of frost has passed.

How to Sow and Plant

Direct sow seeds 1- 1.5 inches deep, spaced 6 inches apart, in rows 18-36 inches apart. Provide trellises or poles for support before planting. Water well after planting and keep the soil evenly moist until germination, which usually occurs in 7-14 days​​. Soaking seeds beforehand is not recommended.

How to Grow

Maintain consistent moisture and apply mulch to conserve water. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers; instead, use compost to provide necessary nutrients. Keep an eye out for pests like aphids and bean beetles, and diseases such as powdery mildew and bean mosaic virus. Rotate crops to prevent soil-borne diseases and support healthy plant growth​.

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 Lima beans be grown in containers?
Yes, but choose bush varieties for containers. Use pots at least 8 inches deep with good drainage. Ensure plants have adequate space to avoid overcrowding, which can stunt growth and increase disease risk​​.

How often should I water Lima beans?
Water deeply once a week, more frequently during dry spells. Consistent watering is crucial during flowering and pod formation to prevent flower and pod drop​​.

When are Lima beans ready to harvest?
Bush varieties mature in 60-80 days, while pole varieties take 85-90 days. Harvest when pods are plump and firm. For dried beans, let the pods dry on the plant before harvesting.

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Lima Bean Seeds, Alabama Blackeyed Butterbean
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