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Macro view of Kurzer&
Kurzer&
Close-up of brightly colored Kurzer&
Kurzer&
Fresh picked Kurzer&
Kurzer&
A close-up macro view Kurzer&
Loose Kurzer&
Macro view of Kurzer&
Kurzer&
Close-up of brightly colored Kurzer&
Kurzer&
Fresh picked Kurzer&

Lima Bean Seeds,
Kurzer's Calico Traveler

3.85 ReviewsSKU: #LB110Min. seed count: 15
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Description

(Phaseolus lunatus) Pole bean. This striking lima bean produces plump seeds marbled in shades of burgundy, purple, tan, and brown, and each one looks hand painted. Our foundation stock came from Michigan grower Doug Kurzer, who stewarded the variety for years, proving its worth even in cooler northern climates. It is believed to have originated with the Choctaw people, but it ‘traveled’ in the pocket of a man named J.C. Trussell (whose family in Choctaw, Mississippi, had been growing it for generations). Trussell gave it to Doug Kurzer’s brother, who in turn gave it to Doug ... who in turn gave it to Baker Creek! The short, half-runner vines are vigorous and productive in southern Michigan — and likely even more abundant where the growing season stretches longer. Gardeners prize it not only for its breathtaking color, but for its reliable yields and rich flavor.

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.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Phaseolus lunatus
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Half-runner
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–8
Days to Maturity
90
Planting Depth
1–1 ½ in.
Plant Spacing
6 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–90°F
Frost Hardy
No

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. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

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 Seeds

  • 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?

The half-runner vines bear over an extended period, so plan on picking repeatedly rather than 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.

Browse our full range of lima bean seeds.

Customer reviews

3.8 / 5 5 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Very productive: Heavy yields of dry beans right up to first frost.

  • Crops in cool climates: Sets a crop in the North and on the coast where other limas fail.

  • Good green or dry: Tasty as a green shell bean and as a dried bean.

  • Growing tips: Slow, spotty germination; soak seed, and pick pods before they pop.

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