Pea

Pisum sativum · Vegetable

A cool-season climber and one of the first crops to sow each year. Peas dislike heat, so timing matters more than anything else. Freshly picked pods are far sweeter than shop-bought, and the plants leave nitrogen behind in the soil.

Care at a glance

Light

Full sun; light afternoon shade in warm areas

Water

About 1 in per week, more once flowering starts

Soil

Loose, well-drained, pH 6.0–7.5

Temperature

Best 55–70 °F; yields drop above 80 °F

Spacing

2 in apart, rows 18–24 in apart

Container

At least 2 gallons, 8 in deep, with a small trellis

Harvest

55–70 days from sowing (estimated)

Lifespan

Annual

When?

Sow outdoors as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring, about 4–6 weeks before your last frost. In mild-winter areas a fall sowing for a winter or early spring crop also works (estimated).

Step by step

1. Soak seeds for a few hours before sowing to speed germination.
2. Sow 1–1.5 in deep directly where they will grow; peas dislike transplanting.
3. Set up netting or a trellis at sowing time, before tendrils start reaching.
4. Keep the soil moist but not soggy until seedlings appear.
5. Mulch lightly once plants are 4 in tall to keep roots cool.
6. Skip heavy nitrogen feeding; peas make much of their own.
7. Pick pods every couple of days; regular picking keeps plants producing.
8. After harvest, cut plants at the base and leave the roots in the soil.

Common problems

Pets

Garden pea is not listed as toxic for cats or dogs. Ornamental sweet pea is a different, toxic plant, so do not confuse the two. If in doubt, ask your vet.

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