How to Grow Improved Henderson Lima Bean
Improved Henderson Lima Bean
Phaseolus lunatus
vegetableImproved Henderson is a bush lima bean variety known for its compact growth, early maturity, and prolific production of small to medium lima beans. This dwarf cultivar is ideal for home gardeners with limited space and produces tender, flavorful beans suitable for fresh eating or preservation. It's a warm-season annual that thrives in full sun and well-draining soil.
When should you plant Improved Henderson Lima Bean in your zone?
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Example Improved Henderson Lima Bean timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Improved Henderson Lima Bean
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Improved Henderson Lima Bean
Around Jun 21≈ 65 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Improved Henderson Lima Bean dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9; can be grown in zones 3-4 with protection and earlier seeding
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Seed germination
7-10 daysSeeds absorb moisture and begin sprouting. Bean seed coats may crack as the radicle emerges.
Ensure soil temperature is at least 60°F (preferably 65-70°F). Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Germination typically occurs in 7-10 days.
Seedling & early vegetative
2-3 weeksFirst true leaves unfold; plant develops simple compound leaves and a sturdy stem. Bush form becomes apparent as plant establishes.
Thin seedlings to proper spacing (4 inches apart). Water gently to avoid disturbing young plants. No fertilizer needed yet if soil is adequately amended.
Vegetative growth
2-3 weeksPlant develops dense foliage and reaches full bush height (12-18 inches). Branching increases and leaf area expands significantly.
Maintain consistent watering. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Side-dress with compost if needed, but avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
Flowering
1-2 weeksSmall white or pale yellow flowers appear in clusters at leaf axils. Flowers are self-pollinating and will develop into small green pods.
Keep soil evenly moist during this critical stage. Do not overwater, which can cause flower drop. Pollinating insects will visit; provide habitat if available.
Pod development & harvest
2-3 weeks (for fresh harvest); 3-4 weeks (for dry beans)Flowers mature into small, flat green pods containing developing lima beans. Pods fill out and beans develop inside. Pods may turn brownish-gray as they mature on the bush.
Maintain steady moisture to prevent pod drop. Begin harvesting when pods are well-filled but still tender (green stage) or allow to mature fully for dry beans. Pick regularly to encourage continued production.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick beetles and egg clusters daily. Use row covers on seedlings. Apply neem oil or spinosad if infestation is heavy.
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Spray with strong water jet to dislodge. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage ladybugs and parasitic wasps.
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Increase humidity and water around plants. Use miticide spray (neem oil or sulfur) if severely infested.
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Use row covers as preventative. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap if damage appears.
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Remove and destroy infested pods immediately. Use pheromone traps to monitor. Hand-pick larvae if visible.
Uses
Fresh & cooked lima beans
CulinaryImproved Henderson beans are prized for their tender, buttery texture and mild flavor when cooked fresh. They can be steamed, boiled, or added to soups and stews. [source]
Dried storage
CulinaryMature dried Improved Henderson beans store for months and are excellent for winter cooking, succotash, bean salads, and traditional recipes. [source]
Nutritional benefits
MedicinalLima beans are rich in fiber, plant-based protein, manganese, and folate, supporting digestive health and energy metabolism. [source]
Seed saving
HouseholdImproved Henderson is an open-pollinated heirloom variety, making it ideal for home seed saving. Allow pods to fully mature and dry, then extract and store seeds for next season. [source]
Nitrogen fixation
WildlifeLike all legumes, lima beans fix atmospheric nitrogen through root nodules, enriching soil naturally and reducing need for added fertilizer in future plantings. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest immature pods for fresh cooking when beans are full-sized but pods are still tender and green (approximately 65-75 days). For dried beans, allow pods to mature fully, turn brown-gray, and dry on the plant before harvesting. Pick regularly to encourage continued flowering and production. Wear gloves if harvesting frequently to prevent skin irritation from the plants.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Improved Henderson was developed in the late 1800s as a bush variety of the larger lima bean, making it popular among home gardeners who lacked space for vining varieties.
- 🌱 Lima beans are native to Central and South America and were a staple food of the Inca civilization; 'lima' refers to the city of Lima, Peru, through which they were exported.
- 🌱 The small, flattened shape of Improved Henderson beans makes them quicker to shell and cook compared to larger lima bean varieties, reducing preparation time.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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