How to Harvest Peas

When garden peas mature, you need to harvest them. Peas are one of the easiest garden vegetables to harvest. Here's how to harvest garden peas in a snap.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Harvest basket
• Garden shears

1. Observe and determine when garden peas are ready. Choose pods that are at least two inches long. For snap peas with edible pods, choose pods that haven't started to bulge yet. Harvest peas that have just started to bulge for shelling.

2. Start the garden pea harvest by holding onto the pea pod with one hand. Pinch it with your thumb and index finger. Hold on tightly but don't break the pod.

3. Hold the stem with your other hand. Garden pea plants have flexible and strong stems and are fairly sturdy when you try to pull the pea pod off the plant.

4. Twist the pod with the hand that is holding it and tug down in a quick snapping motion. You can also use a pair of garden shears or sharp scissors to avoid breaking the pods or pulling up the pea plants.

5. Place all pods or shelled peas in a harvest basket or bag. Wash the peas and dry them between paper towels. Use fresh garden peas within one to two weeks of harvest for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't pick garden peas when the plants are wet. Pea plant's roots are very shallow and sensitive. Picking them while wet increases the chance of pulling up the whole plant.