Seeds: When properly stored, planted, and cared for, we guarantee reasonable germination and true-to-type growth for one year from purchase.
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Excludes factors outside our control (extreme weather, pests, gardener error). If something’s off, contact us—we’ll make it right with a replacement, repair, or refund.
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not obtainable through conventional breeding or found in nature. The USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard uses “bioengineered” as the nationwide labeling term.
Detectable modified genetic material in the final food
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Modifications not achievable through conventional breeding or nature
—seeds / pkt
( ~ g )
Description
A beloved heirloom first introduced in 1888, Henderson’s Bush Lima brought the rich, buttery flavor of traditional limas to compact, easy-to-grow plants. Reaching just 16–20 inches tall, these sturdy bushes yield clusters of small, tender beans that mature early and abundantly, even in limited space or cooler regions.
The beans are creamy and sweet, with a smooth texture that makes them excellent for succotash, soups, or simple buttered side dishes. Unlike pole limas, Henderson’s requires no support and produces generously over an extended harvest period.
Highly adaptable and dependable, this variety marked a turning point in home gardening by making the lima bean accessible to every grower. More than a century later, Henderson’s Bush Lima remains a symbol of classic garden flavor and resilience—compact, prolific, and always delicious.
Location Selection: Choose a location with full sun for optimal growth. Lima beans thrive in warm, sunny areas.
Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is well-drained and enriched with organic matter. Lima beans prefer loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sowing Seeds:
Direct Sowing: Sow seeds directly outdoors in late spring after the danger of frost has passed. Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart in rows spaced 24-36 inches apart.
Germination: Seeds typically germinate within 10-14 days. Maintain consistent moisture levels in the soil during this period.
Care Instructions:
Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Lima beans do not tolerate drought well.
Fertilizing: Lima beans generally do not require much fertilization as they fix their own nitrogen. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of pod production.
Mulching: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pests and Diseases: Lima beans can be affected by pests such as aphids, bean beetles, and diseases like powdery mildew. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with appropriate organic or chemical controls are recommended.
Special Considerations:
Harvesting: Harvest lima beans when the pods are fully mature and the seeds inside are plump. For the best flavor, cook the beans before eating.
How to Grow — Lima Beans (Phaseolus lunatus)
Lima beans are thoughtful growers — slower to start, slower to mature, and quick to sulk when stressed — yet they yield generously when the conditions remain warm, balanced, and steady. Their care depends less on intensity and more on evenness: even moisture, even temperature, even sunlight.
Soil & Fertility Management
Lima beans thrive in fertile, loose, well-drained loam rich in organic matter but poor in excess nitrogen. Heavy or compacted soils stunt root growth and delay flowering, while high-nitrogen inputs produce lush foliage and few pods. Prepare soil deeply with compost or aged manure before planting, then maintain fertility with gentle organic top-dressings rather than concentrated feeds.
Once plants reach 8–10 inches and show buds, apply a half-inch layer of compost or worm castings around the base. This supports flowering without overwhelming the plant. Avoid disturbing the shallow roots during cultivation; instead, use mulch to manage weeds.
In prolonged harvest seasons, limas respond well to an occasional feeding of seaweed extract or compost tea at early bloom and again at first pod set.
Watering & Moisture Balance
Steady soil moisture is the lifeblood of lima beans. They form shallow but expansive root systems and are prone to dropping flowers or shriveling pods if allowed to dry out.
Provide 1 to 1¼ inches of water weekly, delivered deeply once or twice rather than in frequent shallow doses. Maintain moisture especially through flowering and pod fill, when inconsistent watering can halt production entirely.
In hot climates, mulch heavily — 3 inches of straw, shredded leaves, or composted bark — to stabilize soil moisture and prevent surface baking. Avoid standing water, which can suffocate roots and invite fungal issues.
Heat Management & Temperature Sensitivity
Limas demand warmth but not extremes. Optimal growth occurs between 70–85°F (21–29°C). In hot southern summers, shade cloth or companion planting with taller crops (like corn or okra) provides relief during the blistering hours.
If daytime temperatures exceed 95°F for extended periods, pod set may pause. Maintain soil moisture and patience — flowering will resume once conditions moderate.
Conversely, early cold snaps can damage young plants. Protect with row covers or low tunnels until night temperatures remain consistently above 60°F.
Support & Growth Management
Bush limas stand upright and require little more than hilling soil gently at their base once they reach 8 inches to anchor roots. Pole limas, however, are vigorous climbers that benefit from 6–8 ft poles or trellis netting.
Train vines upward early, guiding tendrils before they twine together. Ensure ample airflow between vines to reduce humidity buildup. Removing crowded lower leaves after the first pod set can help maintain airflow and prevent leaf spot.
Feeding & Midseason Renewal
Unlike many legumes, limas are long-season plants that appreciate occasional feeding. Midway through flowering, side-dress with compost or apply diluted fish or kelp emulsion to support steady pod development.
If plants appear pale or sluggish, a top-dress of wood ash or greensand can supply potassium to strengthen pods and improve resilience. Always water thoroughly after feeding.
Pest & Disease Control
Inspect foliage regularly for leafhoppers, aphids, and bean beetles, which can transmit mosaic viruses or chew new leaves. Encourage beneficial insects through interplanting with dill, basil, or marigolds.
To prevent fungal issues such as rust or anthracnose, water at the base of the plants and allow air movement through rows. Crop rotation — especially away from other beans or peas — remains the most effective long-term disease control.
In humid regions, consider an organic spray rotation of neem, copper, or potassium bicarbonate if leaf spotting begins.
Harvest Management & Pod Longevity
Lima beans signal readiness by swelling their pods to fullness and turning slightly paler. Harvest frequently — every 2–3 days — to encourage continued flowering.
For fresh shell beans, pick when seeds fill the pod but before drying begins. For dry limas, allow pods to mature completely on the plant, then harvest once they rattle. Avoid waiting through heavy rain, which can cause sprouting or mold.
Keep mature pods off too long and the plant will assume its task complete, halting bloom production. Consistent picking equals prolonged yield.
Late-Season Renewal & Frost Preparation
Limas are sensitive to cold. As autumn nears, mulch heavily and water well before cold nights. A late-season application of compost or seaweed extract strengthens vines and extends productivity by several weeks.
Before first frost, harvest all remaining pods — even immature ones can be used fresh or frozen. Cut vines at soil level rather than pulling them up to preserve the nitrogen nodules and structure of the soil.
General Growing Rhythm
Keep soil evenly moist and well-mulched at all times.
Feed lightly with organic compost or seaweed extract as flowering begins.
Train vines early and maintain airflow through rows.
Harvest frequently to encourage continuous bloom.
Rotate lima beds every few years to preserve soil vitality and minimize disease.
Additional Tips — Lima - Henderson’s (Phaseolus lunatus)
Harvesting
Pick pods while green and swollen for best flavor. For dry beans, allow to brown and rattle on the plant.
Flavor & Culinary Notes
Smooth, buttery, and rich. Ideal for soups, succotash, and stews. Excellent when creamed or seasoned with herbs.
Handling & Storage
Refrigerate fresh pods 3–4 days; blanch and freeze for later use.
Growing & Maintenance
Support: Bush habit.
Soil and feeding: Moderate fertility with compost addition.
Watering: Consistent 1 inch weekly; drought stress reduces yield.
Inoculation: Lima inoculant recommended.
Succession: Single planting preferred.
Seed Saving
Allow pods to dry fully before harvest. Store seed cool, dry, and sealed.
Container Tips
Grow 3 plants per 10-gallon pot.
Common Pairings in the Garden
Good with corn, okra, and cucumbers. Avoid onions.
Extended Season Care
Use mulch to conserve moisture; protect from cool winds.
Common Pests & Problems — Lima – Henderson’s
Insect Pests
Aphids:
Small, soft-bodied insects that gather on young stems and undersides of leaves, causing curling and honeydew buildup. Rinse off with water, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap, and attract beneficial predators like lady beetles.
Lima Bean Pod Borer:
Caterpillars tunnel into pods and consume developing seeds. Check pods frequently and handpick larvae. Rotate crops and destroy infected debris to break the life cycle.
Mexican Bean Beetle:
Adults and larvae feed between leaf veins, leaving a skeletonized texture. Handpick regularly, apply floating row covers early, and clear plant debris after harvest.
Spider Mites:
Cause stippled or bronzed leaves during hot, dry weather. Keep soil evenly moist, rinse foliage occasionally, and encourage predatory mites.
Cutworms:
Nocturnal larvae that cut young seedlings at the soil line. Protect seedlings with cardboard collars and keep the area weed-free.
Fungal and Bacterial Diseases
Anthracnose:
Dark, sunken lesions develop on pods and stems. Use clean seed, rotate crops for at least three years, and avoid handling wet plants.
Downy Mildew:
Yellow blotches appear on leaves with grayish mold underneath. Water early in the day and ensure good airflow.
Root Rot (Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, Pythium):
Causes seedling damping off, yellowing, and stunting in poorly drained soil. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.
Bacterial Blight (Common and Halo):
Angular brown lesions with yellow halos spread quickly in wet weather. Avoid overhead watering and remove infected plants immediately.
Bean Mosaic Virus:
Leads to mottled, curled foliage and stunted growth. Control aphid populations and discard infected plants.
Physiological and Environmental Issues
Poor Pod Set:
High heat above 90°F or drought conditions during bloom reduce yields. Maintain consistent watering and provide light shading during extreme heat.
Poor Germination:
Lima beans need warm soil (above 70°F) to sprout. Avoid sowing in cool or soggy soil.
Water Stress:
Inconsistent watering causes aborted flowers and malformed pods. Water deeply and regularly through flowering and pod fill.
Nutrient Deficiency:
Pale, slow-growing plants suggest nitrogen deficiency or poor Rhizobium activity. Inoculate seeds before planting and avoid synthetic nitrogen fertilizers.
Integrated Management Tips
Rotate lima beans every 3–4 years with non-legume crops.
Water early at soil level to reduce leaf wetness.
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Remove plant debris promptly after harvest.
Monitor plants weekly for beetles, aphids, and pod borers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — Lima – Henderson’s
Q: What makes Henderson’s lima beans unique?
A: Henderson’s lima, also known as Henderson’s Bush Lima, is prized for its compact habit, early maturity, and tender, buttery beans. It was the first bush-type lima bean ever introduced, revolutionizing home gardening in the late 1800s.
Q: Are Henderson’s lima beans heirloom or hybrid?
A: They are a true heirloom variety, introduced in 1888 by Peter Henderson & Co. of New York.
Q: How long do Henderson’s lima beans take to mature?
A: They typically mature in 60–70 days, making them one of the earliest maturing limas available.
Q: What is the growth habit of Henderson’s lima beans?
A: Henderson’s is a compact bush variety, growing 16–20 inches tall with concentrated pod sets that make it ideal for small gardens and container production.
Q: What do Henderson’s lima beans taste like?
A: The beans are small, tender, and buttery, with a delicate sweetness when cooked fresh or frozen.
Q: How are Henderson’s lima beans used in cooking?
A: They are excellent steamed, simmered, or added to soups and casseroles. The smooth texture holds well in both fresh and frozen preparations.
Q: Are Henderson’s lima beans good for short growing seasons?
A: Yes. Their short maturity time and tolerance for cooler nights make them well suited for northern gardens.
Q: What are ideal growing conditions for Henderson’s lima beans?
A: Full sun and well-drained, warm soil (above 65°F). They thrive in moderately fertile conditions with consistent moisture during flowering.
Q: How should Henderson’s lima beans be harvested?
A: Pick pods when full and still green for fresh eating, or allow them to dry fully on the plant for storage.
History & Culture — Lima – Henderson’s (Phaseolus lunatus)
Henderson’s Bush Lima is a historic American variety of Phaseolus lunatus, introduced in 1888 by Peter Henderson & Company of New York. It was the first truly successful bush form of the lima bean, offering growers a compact, high-yielding alternative to traditional pole types that had dominated since their introduction from South America centuries earlier.
The lima bean itself was first domesticated in the Andean and Mesoamerican regions more than 5,000 years ago. By the 1500s, Spanish and Portuguese traders had spread it worldwide, where it became a valued source of plant protein. The arrival of the bush form in the late 19th century marked a turning point in American horticulture, making limas accessible to small-scale and home gardeners without the need for trellising.
Henderson’s quickly earned acclaim for its dependable yields, early maturity, and tender, buttery flavor. It became one of the most widely grown limas in the United States through the early 20th century and remains an enduring heirloom. The variety stands as a milestone in seed breeding history—representing the successful adaptation of an ancient South American crop to modern American agriculture.
Saving seeds from Henderson's Bush Lima Beans (Phaseolus lunatus):
1. Selecting Plants for Seed Saving:
Choose healthy plants with vigorous growth and abundant pods.
Avoid plants showing signs of disease or poor growth.
2. Harvesting Seeds:
Timing: Allow the pods to mature and dry on the plant.
Collection: Harvest the dry pods on a dry day.
3. Drying Seeds:
Place the pods in a well-ventilated, dry area. Allow them to dry completely for one to two weeks.
4. Cleaning Seeds:
Separation: Shell the dry pods to release the seeds.
Inspection: Ensure seeds are clean and free from mold or pests.
5. Storing Seeds:
Containers: Store seeds in labeled paper envelopes or airtight containers.
Storage Conditions: Keep in a cool, dry, and dark place.
Viability: Use seeds within two to three years for best results.
6. Testing Seed Viability:
Test by placing seeds on a damp paper towel in a plastic bag in a warm place and check for germination.
Tips for Successful Seed Saving:
Isolation: Maintain distance between different lima bean varieties.
Pollinators: Encourage pollinators for better seed production.
Record Keeping: Keep detailed records of the process.
Uses and Benefits:
Henderson's Bush Lima Bean (Phaseolus lunatus) is a prolific variety known for its small, tender beans and rich flavor. It is ideal for fresh eating, canning, and freezing.
Lima beans are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting overall health. Henderson's Bush Lima Beans are versatile in culinary applications, perfect for steaming, sautéing, and adding to salads and casseroles.
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Our seeds are grown and sourced from the US. They're then packed and shipped from Colerain NC.
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Alliance Of Native Seedkeepers
Bean Seeds - Bush - Lima - Henderson's
$200 USD
Unit price /
Unavailable
Description
A beloved heirloom first introduced in 1888, Henderson’s Bush Lima brought the rich, buttery flavor of traditional limas to compact, easy-to-grow plants. Reaching just 16–20 inches tall, these sturdy bushes yield clusters of small, tender beans that mature early and abundantly, even in limited space or cooler regions.
The beans are creamy and sweet, with a smooth texture that makes them excellent for succotash, soups, or simple buttered side dishes. Unlike pole limas, Henderson’s requires no support and produces generously over an extended harvest period.
Highly adaptable and dependable, this variety marked a turning point in home gardening by making the lima bean accessible to every grower. More than a century later, Henderson’s Bush Lima remains a symbol of classic garden flavor and resilience—compact, prolific, and always delicious.
