Henderson Bush Lima Bean Seeds Untreated
This favorite heirloom baby lima grows in a dependable bush form! Three or four great buttery tasting lima seeds grow in each pod and are light green when ripe or white when dry. Productive and popular for the home vegetable garden or processing.
This early, drought tolerant bush lima bean was first found in 1883, growing on a roadside in Lynchburg, Virginia. In 1888, Peter Henderson & Company introduced the bean to local gardeners, who appreciated it for being one of the first lima beans that needed no poles for support. Lima beans, named for the capital city of Peru where they were first discovered by the Spaniards, originated in the wilds of Central and South America. Archaeologists find that lima beans often appear painted on clay pottery, and apparently made up an important part of the diet of the ancient Incans. Traders and explorers brought the lima bean to their own countries, where it spread far and wide. Henderson Bush Beans originated
Sowing: Lima beans can't handle cold weather, so make sure to plant them well after the last frost when the soil temperature hits at least 70 degrees. Plant heirloom Henderson bush lima bean seeds in a sunny spot about 5" apart, with the "eye" side down, and 1" deep, in rows spaced 24" to 36" apart. Germination might take a while. The soil should be enriched with compost or other organic materials, and worked deeply.
Latin Name: Phaseolus lunatus
Type: Open Pollinated, Heirloom, Warm Season
USDA Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Seeds per Ounce: 85
Planting Method: Direct Sow
Sunlight: Full Sun
Pod Shape: Thick/Flat
Height: 24 Inches
Seed Color: Creamy White
Pod Color: Green
Growing: Thin the plants to 8" apart, but avoid transplanting them. Don't over-water, as this can lead to rotting seedlings. Keep weeds in check before the plants start to bloom, since disturbing them during flowering can cause the blossoms to fall off.
Harvesting: The first harvest should happen around 70 days after germination. Pick the beans when the pods start to fill out and feel firm. Generally, smaller beans tend to be more tender. Picking promptly can actually boost your harvest, while leaving the pods on the plant for too long can lead to tough beans.
Seed Saving: Different varieties of lima, runner, or fava beans can cross-pollinate. To avoid this, keep the plants you want to save for seeds isolated from these other varieties by at least half a mile. Towards the end of the growing season, let the beans dry completely on the vine; the pods will turn light brown, and you'll hear the seeds rattling inside. Take the seeds out of the pods. Once the seeds are fully dry, store your heirloom Henderson bush lima bean seeds in a cool, dry place for up to a year.
Seed priming for Henderson Bush Lima Beans involves soaking the seeds in water for a few hours, then allowing them to dry before planting. This process can enhance germination rates and help the seeds establish more quickly once sown in warm soil.
Seed Priming for Henderson Bush Lima Bean
What is Seed Priming?
Seed priming is a pre-sowing method that boosts germination and enhances seedling strength. It consists of soaking seeds in water for a set time, which kickstarts the germination process without them actually sprouting.
Priming Instructions
Preparation
Collect your Henderson Bush Lima Bean seeds.
Use clean, room-temperature water for soaking.
Soaking
Put the seeds in a container.
Immerse the seeds in water for 4 to 12 hours.
Make sure the seeds are completely submerged in water.
Draining
After soaking, completely drain the water.
Spread the seeds on a paper towel or a clean cloth to dry a bit.
Resting
Let the seeds rest for 12 to 24 hours in a cool, dark spot. This allows them to take in moisture without beginning to sprout.
Sowing
After the resting period, plant the seeds in well-prepared soil.
Make sure the soil temperature is at least 65°F for the best germination results.
Additional Tips
Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged after planting.
Temperature: Lima beans do best in warm conditions, ideally between 70°F and 80°F.
Spacing: Space seeds about 2 to 4 inches apart and plant them 1 inch deep.
By following these steps, you'll help ensure successful germination and healthy growth for your Henderson Bush Lima Beans.
Henderson Bush Lima Beans, like other lima beans, are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, which can support heart health, improve blood sugar control, and aid in digestion. They also provide a good source of iron and other vitamins, contributing to overall health and wellness.
Nutritional Profile of Henderson Bush Lima Beans
Henderson Bush Lima Beans, scientifically known as Phaseolus lunatus, are a healthy legume packed with essential nutrients that offer a range of health benefits.
Key Nutrients
Nutrient Amount per Cup (170g)
Calories 209
Protein 12 grams
Fat 0.5 grams
Carbohydrates 40 grams
Fiber 9 grams
Iron 23% of Daily Value
Manganese 92% of Daily Value
Copper 58% of Daily Value
Magnesium 30% of Daily Value
Potassium 21% of Daily Value
Health Benefits
Blood Sugar Control
Lima beans have a low glycemic index, which helps keep blood sugar levels steady.
Their high fiber content slows down carbohydrate absorption, making them a great choice for people with diabetes.
Heart Health
The soluble fiber found in lima beans can help lower LDL cholesterol levels, which reduces the risk of heart disease.
They also contain polyunsaturated fats, which are a healthier option compared to saturated fats.
Digestive Health
The high fiber content encourages regular bowel movements and helps prevent constipation.
Fiber also promotes gut health by nourishing beneficial bacteria, which can decrease the risk of digestive issues.
Weight Management
The mix of protein and fiber in lima beans helps you feel full, which can assist with weight management.
Eating them regularly may result in lower body mass indexes (BMIs) compared to those who don’t include legumes in their diet.
Adding Henderson Bush Lima Beans to your meals can offer these health benefits while boosting your overall well-being.
