Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil
Wait until soil is warm and all frost danger has passed
Loosen the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches
Mix in compost if the soil is poor
Plant seeds 1 to 1.5 inches deep
Space seeds 2 to 4 inches apart
Space rows 2 to 3 feet apart
Water the soil after planting
Keep the soil evenly moist until seedlings emerge
Thin seedlings to 4 to 6 inches apart if needed
Provide support for pole lima bean varieties
Weed carefully around the plants
Water during dry periods
Harvest pods when they are full and firm