- Peas don't take very much work to grow, and they can be grown anywhere in the United States. There are many types and varieties of peas, such as dwarf and telephone, which represents how tall they will grow. Most dwarf peas are self supporting. They don't need a fence or trellis to hold them up, but they do require you plant them in wider rows. The taller type of plant can be planted next to a fence or planted in a veggie cage that can expand up to 7 feet tall. For those who like to eat the pods and all, there are a few different types. The edible-podded peas are known as sugar peas. They are classified as snow peas and snap peas. Snow peas are also referred to as Chinese peas. Snow peas are harvested when the pods are flat and the peas inside are very tiny. Snap pea pods have a lower fiber content and can be snapped like a bean. The snap peas inside the pods are larger than the snow peas but not as large as the common shuck pea.
- Peas like cool weather, so planting in early spring or early fall is best. For early spring planting, the ground should be at least 45 degrees. The peas will take between 55 and 75 days from planting to harvest. Most edible-pod varieties are tall climbers and should be planted in double rows. Once they start to grow, a fence can be put between the rows and used by both to climb. Chicken wire and wooden posts work fine for this kind of fencing, or you can use the veggie cages. Seeds should be planted 1 1/2 inches deep, and rows should be 8 to 10 inches between the double rows. If you plant a dwarf pea variety, the single rows should be between 1 1/2 feet to 2 feet apart. For early spring planting, you may want to mound the dirt and plant the seed in the mound. This will allow it a warmer environment and less pooling of water that could rot the seed before it sprouts.
- Young seedlings can be damaged by a harsh fertilizer, so fertilize early and consider making your own compost to use. Then add some fertilizer about every 3 weeks, keeping it off the leaves. Water the plants as needed in the spring, but when it starts to get hot and dry, deep-water the plants as the dirt starts to dry out. Depending on where you live and when you plant, you may need to add a fungicide if it's very hot or humid. Another common problem is snails and slugs. Place beer in an empty shallow container and put in the soil up to the edge. The snail and slugs will be more attracted to the beer than the peas and will fall in the container. Birds can harm your young seedlings if they are not covered. If birds become a problem, arc some chicken wire over the seedlings and the birds won't bother them. Harvest your pea pods when they are young and tender. If left on the vine too long, the peas become hard and tough. The peas lose their sweetness quickly once picked, so cook or freeze them right away. These edible-pod types of peas are excellent for eating raw and are a favorite of children.
