SOIL TEST INFORMATION SHEET NO. V-370

Prepared by Extension Horticulturists Mike Cannon and James Boudreaux

Southern (Field peas) and Butter (Lima) Beans

1.	These crops are sensitive to strongly acid soils, pH below 5.0.  Production and pod quality may be adversely affected.  Crinkled leaves, stunted growth and low yields with poor quality are symptoms of low soil pH.  Symptoms may also be confused with virus diseases.  Apply agricultural limestone if soil pH is below 5.5.  On soils low in magnesium, dolomitic limestone should be used.  Apply lime 2-6 months before planting.

2.	Nitrogen Fertilization

Southern Peas:  The rate of nitrogen fertilization will depend on whether soils are alluvial or upland and the organic matter content of the soil.  Fertile alluvial soils will require 0-20 pounds of nitrogen per acre, depending on organic matter content.  If the organic matter content is 1% or more, no nitrogen fertilizer should be used.  If organic matter content is less than 1%, apply up to 20 pounds per acre.  The lower the organic matter, the higher the rate of nitrogen to use (up to 20 pounds per acre).

On most upland soils, 15 to 30 pounds of nitrogen per acre may be used, depending upon the matter content of the soil.

Over-fertilizing peas with nitrogen causes excessive vine growth and very little pod production.

Butter (Lima) Beans:  Lima beans are not as sensitive to over-fertilization with nitrogen as Southern peas.  Apply 30-40 pounds nitrogen per acre preplant.

3.	Contact your county agent for additional information and help in your fertilization program.  The agent also receives a copy of this report for the parish office files.