In This Article
| Common Name | Pea |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Pisum sativum |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Plant Type | Annual vegetable |
| Size | 2-6 feet tall, depending on variety |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil Type | Well-draining, loamy soil |
| Soil pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Bloom Time | Spring to early summer |
| Hardiness Zones | 2–11 |
| Native Area | Mediterranean region |
When and Where to Plant Peas
- Success with peas comes with proper timing, as plants prefer mild temperatures. In spring, pea seeds should be sown about 4-6 weeks ahead of the last expected date of frost to get a head start. Peas can be planted in fall, too, in areas that have quite mild winters to extend a winter harvest.
- Plant peas in full sun they require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. They love cool, well-draining soil but can be quite sensitive to waterlogged conditions. That makes raised beds or loose sandy soil ideal for them. If you are one of those gardeners who practice crop rotation, do not grow peas in exactly the same spot every year to minimize soil-borne diseases. Companions planting of vegetable like carrots, radishes, or even lettuce could also maximize the garden space but still keep the soil healthy.
Preparation of Peas Soil
Peas do best when the soil pH is in a near-neutral to slightly acid range that is between 6.0 to 7.5. Prepare the bed this way: loosen the top 8 to 10 inches of the topsoil and work in some organic compost or well-rotted manure. Because peas are nitrogen fixers, they don't require heavy feeding. Compost will simply get them off to a great start. After seeding, spread a thin layer of mulch over the planting bed to conserve moisture and control soil temperature, a particular boon for warm-zone gardeners.
Planting Peas: Seeds vs. Seedlings
- Seeds are the most common method of raising peas. Direct sow the seeds into the garden when the soil temperature has reached at least 45°F, as it may germinate much more slowly if the ground is much colder. At planting time, sow the seeds 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart in rows 7-12 inches apart to assure good aeration. Bush types require no support, but the taller, vining varieties do and something to climb on will be needed, such as a trellis or stakes.
- Pea seedlings are rarely seeded indoors as peas set poorly after transplanting. If you do want to get a head start, do so 3-4 weeks before your estimated planting date. Use biodegradable pots that can be set directly into the soil to reduce transplant shock.
Water and Sun Requirements
- They like to have good, even moisture but not to be sitting in water. The best time to water is deeply once a week, and even more in dry weather. The soil should be moist-not waterlogged, as this may cause root rot. A thick layer of mulch assists with water retention, especially for very hot climates.
- While peas love sunny weather, partial shade does not hurt them; in fact, partial shade can help them in hot areas where afternoon sun is too strong and afternoon shade saves them from getting burnt. Peas prefer their temperature between 55-70°F with a higher temperature above 85°F causing flowers to drop and hence yield to go down in general.
Varieties Of Peas
There are three main types of peas, each having different uses and characteristics. Understanding their differences will empower the gardener with the ability to make the right choice that the gardener requires, whether it is needed for fresh eating, cooking, or freezing.
1. Garden Peas (English Peas):
The garden peas or shelling peas are for the production of seeds, not the pods. These pods are tough and hence inedible; therefore, these peas must be removed before eating. These peas have sweet and plump seeds, hence suitable to eat fresh, cook or freeze. The two common varieties being 'Lincoln' and 'Wando.'
2. Snap Peas:
Snap peas are yet another variant that has edible pods and seeds for a crunchy sweet snack; they can be used in salads, stir-fries, and fresh off the vine. Because snap peas tolerate warmer temperatures, they extend the harvest season well past the time other peas are too hot to produce.
3.Snow Peas:
Snow peas are one variety of edible pod pea, having small seeds and flat, thin pods. These plants are very common in Asian cuisine. Their tender crisp texture along with mild flavor makes them great for raw snacking or lightly sautéing. The optimal growing conditions for this are cooler conditions with frequent watering to maximum yield.
Each variety will offer an added advantage and for that matter, most gardeners like to grow several types for various flavors and textures throughout the season. In addition, disease-resistant cultivars will no doubt promise a healthier yield for areas that are prone to fungal diseases.
Fertilizing and Caring for Pea Plants
Peas generally don't require massive fertilization. Being legumes, they convert atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, enriching it for the next crop. The plants nonetheless welcome feeding with compost tea or a dilution of organic fertilizer once at the time of flowering, which promotes the pod formation. Regular weeding is necessary and must be especially done in an early stage of plant growth. Weeds compete for available nutrients and may crowd the plants. Deep hoeing is not advised since peas have shallow roots that can be easily damaged.
Pest and Disease Management
- Peas are one of the legumes that resist pest moderately, but at times may be susceptible to aphids, pea weevils, or slugs. To control the latter three organically, spray insecticidal soap or neem oil on the plants to kill them. A strong stream of water is also effective in knocking off aphids from leaves and stems. Early season row covers prevent pea weevils from laying eggs.
- Common diseases include powdery mildew, root rot, and damping-off. Allowing proper air circulation and distance between the plants minimizes the opportunity of fungal infection. Rotating crops season after season minimizes the build-up of soil-borne diseases, while planting disease-resistant varieties of peas offers additional protection.
Growing Peas in Containers
Container-growing peas will also do well and, hence, be ideal for those gardeners who have very limited spaces. One needs to select a deep container that has at least 12-18 inches of depth, which may have some drainage holes on the bottom. Add into it a high-quality, lightweight potting mix and place a little trellis or stake for its support.
Of course, peas grown in containers need a bit more frequent watering as their soil will dry out sooner. Be certain to check the moisture and avoid overwatering. Bush types, such as 'Little Marvel' or dwarf snap peas, really perform well in containers, becoming small, manageable plants.
How to Harvesting and Store Peas
Harvest peas when pods are plump but still tender. Snap and snow peas should be picked at full pod size before the seeds mature, garden peas after seeds inside of the pod have reached full size but before they become starchy.
The peas will be sweetest and flavoriest if they are picked in the morning. Keep an eye out on your plants because in no time peas will go past their prime. Immediately after picking, peas should either be used or kept inside the refrigerator to maintain sweetness. One of the good methods for preserving peas for future use is by blanching and freezing.
Common Problems
- Poor Germination: It often occurs due to extremely cold or waterlogged soil at the time of planting. The soil temperature at least should be 45° F if planting is done; in that case, raised beds should be considered.
- Yellowing Leaves: Overwatering might be another reason; deficiencies of other nutrients also can be blamed. Change your watering schedule and add a balanced organic fertilizer if required.
- Flower Drop: Higher temperatures and water stress may cause flowers to drop. Afternoon shade in hot weather provides protection, while constant moisture is maintained.
FAQs
What time of year is best to plant peas?
Plant peas in the ground early in spring when one is able to work the ground. If you have a more mild climate, you may be able to plant in late summer to get a fall harvest.
How often should I water a pea plant?
They'll require regular watering, especially once they flower and set pods. Deep water once or twice a week depending on rain.
Do peas require fertilizer?
As legumes, they require very little fertilization since peas fix the nitrogen of the soil. They can be lightly applied at planting time with phosphorus fertilizer to help in better root development.
Can peas be grown indoors?
While peas do best in outside conditions, they grow rather well indoors given sufficient light. The gardener should plant for dwarf varieties and sunny open window or growing light when possible.
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