Pea (Pisum sativum)

Peas are low-maintenance once planted, requiring only regular watering and timely harvesting. Pests and diseases are uncommon, particularly when disease-resistant varieties are used. However, be vigilant for aphids and remove them with a strong spray of water from a garden hose. Peas flourish in cool weather, with young plants capable of withstanding light frosts. After germination, they adapt well to the chilly, damp conditions of early spring. To ensure a full harvest, plant peas as early as possible in spring, well before hot summer temperatures halt production. In temperate climates, the guideline "Plant peas by St. Patrick's Day" is a reliable rule of thumb. Alternatively, sow peas about a month before your area's frost-free date. For a fall crop, protect seedlings from late-summer heat with shade and consistent watering until cooler weather sets in.

Temperature

Peas are a cool-season crop that need to mature before warm weather arrives. They grow best in temperatures ranging from 55°F to 70°F. To ensure optimal growth, plant peas in the garden about six weeks before the average last frost date in spring or as soon as the soil is workable.

Soil

For optimal yields, ensure the soil has adequate fertility and a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. If needed, adjust the pH using ground limestone or wood ashes, ideally applied in the fall before planting.

Planting

Sow the first planting of peas in early spring as soon as the soil is workable. In well-drained soil, plant seeds 1–1½ inches apart in a 3-inch-wide band (about 25 seeds per foot) and ½–1 inch deep. Thinning is not necessary. For varieties under 3 feet tall, sow without support in rows spaced 12–18 inches apart. Taller varieties require crop supports, such as trellis netting or chicken wire, to keep the vines upright, accessible for picking, and off the ground to reduce the risk of rot during rainy harvest periods. Position the trellis or chicken wire just above the young plants, installing it at planting time for best results. For trellised peas, standard row spacing is 4–6 feet.

Spacing

Harvest

Peas grown for the fresh market are typically harvested by hand at the edible maturity stage. Pick them when the pods are 3½ to 4 inches long, and the peas inside have fully developed. For short-term storage, keep peas in cold storage at 32°F with 85–95% relative humidity, where they will remain fresh for 7–10 days.

Peas

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