Grow Guide to Peas

Pisum sativum

Plant Description

A crisp, vibrant legume recognized for its plump pods and sweet, tender peas. Peas are one of the earliest crops you can plant in spring, thriving in cool weather and well-drained soil. Vining varieties climb readily, while bush types are compact and productive. Their roots also fix nitrogen, helping enrich the soil for future crops.

Quick Facts

  • Sunlight: Full Sun
  • Days to Sprout: 7–14 days
  • Days to Harvest: 55–70 days
  • Plant Spacing: 2–3 inches
  • Seeds per Hole: 1–2
  • Plant Type: Cool-Season Annual
  • Planting Depth: 1 inch

Best Planting Locations

  • Garden Beds: Ideal for early planting—choose a sunny, well-drained site.
  • Raised Beds: Promote early soil warming and good drainage in spring.
  • Containers: Use bush or dwarf varieties; provide a trellis or cage for support.

Getting Started

  1. Direct Sow: Peas don’t transplant well. Sow seeds outdoors as soon as soil can be worked in early spring.
  2. Soil Needs: Loamy, well-draining soil. Enrich with compost but avoid excess nitrogen.
  3. Support: Trellis or fencing is helpful for most varieties, even some bush types.

Companion / Enemy Plants

Good Companions: Carrots, radishes, turnips, cucumbers.

Avoid Planting Near: Onions, garlic, shallots—can hinder growth.

Attractants / Repellents

Attracts: Bees and pollinators during bloom.

Repels: Not particularly repellent; may benefit from marigolds nearby to deter pests.

When to Plant

  • Early Spring: 4–6 weeks before last frost; soil temps should be at least 45°F.
  • Fall Crop: In cooler climates, sow 8–10 weeks before first expected frost.

Maintenance

  • Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially while pods are forming.
  • Fertilizing: Minimal fertilizer needed; use compost or balanced organic feed if soil is poor.
  • Weeding: Mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture.

Harvest

  • Pick pods when they’re plump and bright green, before seeds become starchy.
  • Frequent harvesting encourages continued production.
  • Use scissors or gently snap pods to avoid damaging vines.

Uses

  • Fresh: Eat raw in salads or as a snack right out of the pod.
  • Cooked: Lightly steam or sauté for a tender, sweet side dish.
  • Preserved: Freeze shelled peas or entire pods after blanching.

How to Store

  • Short Term: Store fresh pods in the refrigerator for up to 5–7 days.
  • Long Term: Shell and freeze or dry for future use in soups and stews.