Fabaceae · Pisum sativum
Cost per seed: $0.04
Flat, green, edible pods growing to 10cm by 2cm. Sweet and tender. Heavy cropping. Can be eaten raw or cooked; excellent in salads and stir-fries.
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Pick regularly to prolong flowering.
Pea plants grow best in soil that is alkaline. If soil pH is under 7, apply dolomite (calcium magnesium carbonate) or garden lime (calcium carbonate) in powder or liquid form at the recommended rate and water in well prior to planting. Lime increases the alkalinity (or pH) of soil, making nutrients more available to some plants.
Pea plants need to be staked for support. Use a sturdy stake or grow plants alongside a trellis or tripod. As plants grow, tie stems gently to the support using twine or plant ties. Make sure you have the support in place when you sow seed or transplant seedlings to avoid disturbing the plant’s roots later.
Common Problems: Caterpillars, Animals, Powdery Mildew, Rust, Slugs and Snails, Pea beetles
Snow peas and sugar snap peas are ready to harvest when the pods are large enough to eat. Shelling peas are ready to harvest when the pods are full and plump but still crisp. Harvest pods by cutting with snips/secateurs. Harvest regularly to encourage more pods. For shelling peas, break open the pods, remove the peas and discard the pods. Whole pods or shelled peas can be stored short term in the fridge. For longer term storage, shelled peas can be blanched and frozen.