Lima beans thrive when early planting is paired with steady midseason care. After growing bush and pole limas in raised beds, wide rows, and containers for many years, I’ve learned that good cultural practices—mulching, timely weeding, smart trellising, and simple midseason tune-ups—make the difference between small, inconsistent harvests and long, heavy production. Here’s the complete…
Chickpeas—also known as garbanzo beans—are one of the most dependable cool-season legumes for home gardeners. After decades of growing them in raised beds and open rows in Sonoma Valley, I’ve found that timing is the single most important factor for a successful harvest. Chickpeas prefer cool spring weather, tolerate light frost, and produce best before…
Southern peas (cowpeas) are some of the most reliable warm-season crops you can grow—fast, vigorous, and well adapted to heat. But even heat-loving, drought-tolerant legumes benefit from a bit of seasonal care. After growing southern peas for decades in two hot-summer regions, I’ve learned that small, timely tasks—especially weeding, minimal training, and a simple midseason…
Lima beans are generally resilient, but over decades of growing both bush and pole varieties in raised beds, mounds, and containers, I’ve encountered a few recurring pests and diseases. Early identification and organic control methods are essential to maintain healthy plants and high yields without harsh chemicals. Here’s my experience-based guide. Common Lima Bean Pests…
Growing chickpeas—also called garbanzo beans—is simpler than many gardeners expect. With more than 30 years of growing warm-season legumes in raised beds and open rows, I’ve found chickpeas to be one of the easiest crops for home gardens. They thrive in light, warm soil, ask for little fertilizer, and reward you with nutty, protein-rich pods…
Harvesting lima beans at the right stage is essential for flavor, texture, and seed preservation. Over many seasons growing both bush and pole varieties in raised beds, mounded rows, and containers, I’ve learned how to identify the perfect time to pick fresh beans, shelling beans, or dry seeds for storage. Here’s my experience-based guide to…
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