Few things say spring like the taste ofpeaspicked fresh from the garden.
There are short, bushy varieties as well as long,vining ones.
Peas are typically planted in the spring, though they also can be grown in the fall.
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They have a fairly quick growth rate.
you could try using a cold frame to shelter your plants if you live in a cold climate.
Selecting a Planting Site
Pick a sunny spot that has sharp soil drainage.
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Avoid a garden site where peas have been previously grown.
Container growth is also an option.
Spacing, Depth, and Support
Plant seeds about 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart.
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Rows should be at least 7 inches apart.
If you have a vining variety, add poles or pea fencing at the time of planting.
They can tolerate a bit of shade, though this can hinder production and affect taste.
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Soil
Peas can grow in a variety of soil types as long as there is good drainage.
For best results, plant your peas in a loamy soil thats rich inorganic matter.
A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH is ideal.
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Water
Proper watering is one of the most important factors of a successful pea crop.
Dont let the soil ever fully dry out, but also dont let it become soggy.
About an inch of water per week should be sufficient.
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Once the temperature is warmer than 85 degrees Fahrenheit, the plants will struggle.
Humidity typically isnt an issue as long as soil moisture needs are met.
Fertilizer
Fertilizer typically isnt required for pea plants.
You also can give your plants a boost with some balanced organic liquid fertilizer when the seedlings first emerge.
Pollination
Pea plants are self-pollinating.
There arent separate male and female plants.
However, theyre not the same species, and black-eyed peas are actually categorized as beans.
In terms of their growth, black-eyed peas prefer much warmer conditions than peas.
Harvesting Peas
Once your pea plant is in bloom, check regularly for harvestable peas.
In general, most varieties take an average of 65 days after planting to be ready to harvest.
Snow peas are ready when their pods show small peas inside.
Snap peas are ready when the pods are plump and glossy.
And garden peas are ready when the pods are fully formed but not yet dull or waxy.
The best time to pick peas is in the morning, as they will have the most plumpness then.
Peas are best used as soon as possible after harvesting.
Use a pot with drainage holes thats at least 12 inches wide and deep.
An unglazed clay container is ideal because it will allow excess soil moisture to evaporate through its walls.
Use a fast-draining organic potting soil made for vegetables.
Pruning
Pruning generally isnt necessary for pea plants.
But you’re free to trim off small tendrils or shoots for eating.
They have a mild, pea-like flavor that goes well in salads and other dishes.
Propagating Peas
Pea plants can be propagated bysaving their seeds.
This will help to speed up their germination.
Then, plant them in loosened soil.
And see to it the soil is lightly moist but not wet, as this can rot the seeds.
Expect germination in about a week if the soil is 65 degrees Fahrenheit or above.
The seeds can take up to a month to germinate in soil thats around 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Overwintering
Pea plants are annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle in one growing season.
So overwintering them won’t be necessary.
You also can grow companion plants that deter insects.
For example, aphids can be repelled by rosemary plants.
Fungal diseases, including fusarium wilt and powdery mildew, also can impact pea plants.
Its typically best to destroy the affected plants to prevent diseases from spreading.
Most pea varieties will be ready to harvest in around two months after planting.
Some varieties can even provide an earlier harvest.
Pea plants are annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle in one growing season.
However, you’re free to save seeds for future plantings.
