Also known as green gram or moong (Vigna radiata)
Mung beans are quick, versatile and nutrient-dense. You can sprout them on your kitchen bench, grow them in pots or the garden for fresh or dry beans, and even use them as green manure to improve soil health.
What Are Mung Beans?
Mung beans (Vigna radiata) are small green legumes used across Asia and popular in Australian gardens. They germinate rapidly, handle heat, and partner with beneficial soil bacteria to fix nitrogen—making them useful both in the kitchen and in regenerative gardening.
When to Sow in Australian Climates
| Climate Zone | Best Sowing Window | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tropical | Most of the year when >20 °C | Avoid peak wet season; ensure drainage. |
| Subtropical | September–March | Ideal in warm, settled weather. |
| Temperate | October–January | Sow after soil warms; protect from late chills. |
| Cool/Alpine | November–January | Warmest part of the year only; choose fast varieties. |
Quick Growing Guide
| Aspect | Sprouts | Garden/Container |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 18–24 °C room temp | Soil >18 °C; warm season |
| Time to Harvest | 3–5 days | 60–90 days (pods); 90–110 (dry beans) |
| Water | Rinse twice daily | Even moisture; avoid waterlogging |
| Light | Low (keep dark for thick sprouts) | 6–8 hours full sun |
| Spacing | Not applicable | 5–10 cm plants; 30–45 cm rows |
| Soil / Medium | Clean jar + mesh lid | Free-draining, moderate fertility |
Using Mung Beans as Green Manure
Mung beans partner with Rhizobium bacteria to fix atmospheric nitrogen, build organic matter and protect soil. They are fast to establish and easy to incorporate before flowering.
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Sowing rate | Approx. 20–30 kg/ha (≈2–3 g/m²), broadcast or in wide rows |
| Timing | Warm conditions; soil >18 °C |
| Management | Allow 6–8 weeks of growth; mow or slash just as buds form |
| Incorporation | Chop and drop as mulch, or lightly fork in; keep moist |
| Plant-back interval | 2–3 weeks before planting the next crop |
| Best before | Heavy feeders (corn, brassicas, fruiting annuals) |
Tip: If your soil lacks recent legume history, inoculate seed with the appropriate Vigna rhizobia to maximise nitrogen fixation.
FAQ
Are mung beans the same as green gram?
Yes. “Mung,” “moong,” and “green gram” all refer to Vigna radiata.
Can I grow mung beans in cooler climates?
Yes—during the warmest months only, once soil stays above 18 °C. Choose faster-maturing varieties and sheltered sites.
Do I need fertiliser?
Usually no. Excess nitrogen reduces pod set. Compost at planting and adequate potassium help flowering and pod fill.
How do I store sprouts and cooked beans?
Refrigerate sprouts in a breathable container and use within 2–3 days. Cooked beans keep 3–4 days refrigerated or freeze for 2–3 months.
Food Safety Notes for Sprouts
- Use clean equipment and fresh, potable water.
- Rinse thoroughly and drain well to avoid standing water.
- Refrigerate promptly after harvest.
- Vulnerable groups (pregnant, elderly, very young, immunocompromised) should cook sprouts before eating.
Click here to view our mung bean sprouting seeds kit.