Growing Lima Beans in Zone 3B

Lima beans need warmth and patience, but the buttery, creamy beans you get are far superior to any canned version.

Zone 3B has a short growing season — start seeds indoors when possible and use season-extending techniques like cold frames and row covers.

Top Growing Tips

• Need warm soil (65°F+) — cold soil causes rot, not germination
• Both bush (60 days) and pole (75-90 days) types available
• Shell while fresh for sweet, buttery flavor; let dry for dried beans
• Don’t overwater — they prefer slightly drier conditions than snap beans
• Harvest pods when beans are visible and plump inside but still green

Companion Planting

Good companions: corn, cucumbers, summer savory

Avoid planting near: onions, garlic, fennel

Harvest Timeline

60-90 days; harvest when pods are plump but still green

About Zone 3B

USDA Hardiness Zone 3B has an average last spring frost around May 15 and first fall frost around Sep 15. All planting dates above are calculated from these frost dates. Your specific location may vary — check with your local extension office for the most accurate dates.