Lima beans

Has anyone tried gorwing Lima Beans at all? I have read that these are dried to make what we all know as Butter Beans.

Related to the Runner Bean I think.

I presume that it would have to be in the greenhosue as they will no doubt be a bit sensitive to our wonderful climate.

Any experiences to report? I love buttter beans and the idea of growing my own is highly tempting.

 

Matty Boy - I tried growing one called Christmas Lima (I was sent some dried ones from the states for cooking - and they were wonderful). Managed to get some sent over for growing (sorry ate all of the first batch). I grew them outdoors, and the plants weren't exactly thriving, did blossom, but never really set seed.

Have since noted that they grow in the hotter, humid regions particularly of the SE U.S. - a greenhouse might do it, but I wonder if you need the humidity too.

www.davesgarden.com/pf/go/40283/index.html
www.seedsavers.org/prodinfo.asp?number=M831

 

MB - definitely - Lima Beans are very sensitive to cold, therefore the ideal time to grow them is the late-spring and the summer. The growing cycle is 3-4 months and it is ideal to plant them near some corn which would support the beans plant, and courgettes which would create some shadow (therefore less water needed). Beans, in return, would supply some nitrogen, which is useful for the other plants.

 

Hi Rumple and Miraflores:

Thank very muuch for the replies. I am now inspired to give them a go this spring. Will try both greenhouse and outside and will let you know how I get on.