Planting

Peas

Planting Time Peas thrive in cool weather and are one of the first crops you can plant in early spring. As soon as the soil can be worked and temperatures stay above freezing, they are ready to go. They do not appreciate heat and will quit producing once summer heat rolls in. Planting early ensures a long, sweet harvest from vines eager to climb and grow.

Depth & Spacing Plant seeds one inch deep and space them two inches apart along rows spaced eighteen to twenty four inches. Peas like to climb, so provide a trellis, fence, or stakes. Without support, they sprawl like a tired cowboy after chores and produce fewer pods. Proper spacing improves airflow and boosts yields.

Soil & Fertilization Peas prefer loose, well drained soil and do best with actually help enrich soil by fixing nitrogen. Avoid heavy nitrogen fertilizers, which grow lots of leaves but few pods. A little compost is enough to get them started strong and productive.

Watering Needs Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Peas need steady water during flowering and pod development. Dry spells make them tough and they can inside shriveling. Think gentle, regular watering, like topping off a horse trough each morning. Mulch helps keep moisture steady.

Sunlight Requirements Peas grow best in full sun but tolerate partial shade, especially as temperatures warm. Full sun provides strong and bright light. Shade during hot afternoons can actually help prolong their productivity. Too much heat turns peas stubborn and bitter.

Harvesting Harvest peas when pods feel plump but not overly tight. Snap peas and snow peas are best while pods are crisp and tender. Shelling peas should be picked when pods swell noticeably. Pick often as frequent harvesting encourages more pods to grow. Waiting too long makes peas starchy and less sweet.

Captain Greenhouse Tip Peas climb eagerly, so give them support early to prevent tangled vines. Plant a second wave two weeks after the first to extend your harvest. And remember, peas love cool soil, so do not wait for nice weather. Get them in early and they will reward you with sweet pods that taste like springtime itself.