Grow Peas Like A Pro: The Ultimate Guide

Ah, there's nothing quite like the sight of a garden covered in a sea of vibrant green peas. I'm Angela, and I'm here to tell you that this is where I find my purest joy – amidst the peas. You see, peas are the cool season crops I look forward to growing the most. There's something inexplicably satisfying about picking fresh peas right from the garden; their taste is unparalleled, far superior to anything you'll find in a store.

But hold on, my fellow garden enthusiasts, because in this video, I'm going to share my juiciest secrets, the tips and tricks that make growing peas not just a gardening chore but a fulfilling adventure. Welcome to the world of pea-growing, where flavor and simplicity unite.

Choosing Your Pea Adventure

First things first, let's talk about the types of peas. You have options, my friends, and they're all fantastic in their own right.

• Shelling peas: These are the traditional, old-fashioned peas with inedible pods. You shell them to reveal the treasure inside – the delicious peas.
• Snow peas: These come with large, stringless, edible pods and petite peas inside. They're perfect for stir-fries, with pods that are often the size of your dreams.
• Sugar snap peas: These are my personal favorites. They are the epitome of edible pod perfection, boasting full-size peas that can be devoured at any stage, pod and all. You'll find it hard to resist munching on them right in the garden.

Knowing which type of peas you're growing is essential because it determines when to harvest and how to enjoy them. Sugar snap peas are my go-to, and trust me, many of them never make it past the garden gate.

Timing is Everything

Peas, dear gardeners, are cool-season vegetables. They thrive in cooler temperatures, so it's crucial to plant them at the right time, depending on your climate. Here in Mesa, Arizona (Zone 9B), I start planting in mid-September or early October, continuing through January. However, in colder regions, peas often lead the vegetable parade, being sown a few weeks before the last frost.

A note on their roots: they are as delicate as a butterfly's wing. I prefer to sow peas directly in the garden, although you can start them indoors and transplant them outside if you wish. Starting them indoors yielded earlier peas for me, but I've noticed that direct-sown peas are more prolific. The choice is yours, and both methods can be successful.

Sunshine and Structure

Now, let's talk sunshine. While peas appreciate cooler temps, they also crave sunlight. At least six hours of sunshine is their sweet spot. An abundance of sunlight not only makes them flourish but also helps fend off pests and diseases.

But peas aren't just content with soaking up the sun; they like to climb to greater heights. Vertical growth is their jam. So, before you plant, devise a plan for providing them with the necessary support. Whether it's a trellis, bamboo supports, or any other structure, ensure they have something to cling to. If the tendrils need a little nudge, help them find the trellis – it's like giving a boost to a friend in need.

Tips for Tender Peas

Now, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of caring for your pea plants. When it comes to watering, remember that peas are a bit fussy. They don't enjoy soggy feet, but you mustn't let them dry out, especially during their flowering stage. Their fragile roots need love and care. Instead of digging around the plants to control weeds, consider mulching around them once they're about two inches tall. This will conserve moisture and save you from unnecessary root disruption.

Oh, and don't forget to keep an eye on those tendrils. Sometimes they need a little extra help in finding their way up the trellis. You're not just tending to plants; you're nurturing a work of art.

But here's the real kicker: those tender pea vines are not just a sight to behold; they're also edible. Shoots growing from the vines can be enjoyed raw or lightly cooked. Peas, in their entirety, are a gift that keeps on giving.

Troubleshooting and Harvesting

Now, for a bit of reality: even in the world of peas, problems can crop up. Powdery mildew, resembling an otherworldly white powder on leaves, may make an appearance during hot, dry weather. Certain wilt diseases can turn your once-lush vines into yellowing, brown, withered things. White mold can rot stems and bring wilting misfortune. To the rescue, consider disease-resistant varieties if these issues haunt your garden.

If you encounter a diseased plant, don't give it the chance to spread its misery. Dispose of it, don't compost it. We wouldn't want to spread the disease further, now would we?

Lastly, here's a gem of wisdom to close our pea-growing symphony: harvest early and harvest often. Leaving peas on the plant sends the signal that their job is complete, causing a slowdown in production. And we can't have that, can we? Sweet peas should be picked when the pods are round, bright green, and shiny. If the pods start to lose their luster, the peas inside become fibrous and less sweet.

Snow peas are ready when you see the peas inside but the pods are still flat, and sugar snap peas, my beloved variety, are best harvested when the peas are well-formed but still small within the edible pod.

As temperatures rise, and your peas begin to show signs of wear and tear, it's time to bid them adieu. But remember, don't yank them out by their roots; peas are nitrogen fixers, and those roots have a valuable role in the garden. Snip the plant at the base and, if it's healthy, toss it in the compost, leaving the roots in place to work their magic.

So, dear gardeners, whether you're new to the world of peas or a seasoned pro, growing these luscious legumes is always an adventure. Follow these tips, tend to your peas with care, and you'll find yourself in a garden paradise filled with delicious, tender green treasures.

Happy pea-growing, and may your garden always be abloom with nature's bounty!