How to Soak Peas for Planting

Soak pea seeds prior to planting for faster germination.

Peas are one of the first crops to be sown in the spring. As soon as the soil can be worked, it is time to plant peas. But before you put them in the soil, take the time to soak them in water. The dried seeds absorb moisture readily to get ready for germination. Soaking peas before planting speeds the germination process and encourages sprouts in a few days to a week. Get a head start on the season and you'll have delicious fresh peas in a matter of weeks.

Things You'll Need

• Pea seed
• Large bowl/bucket
• Tepid water

Instructions

1. Examine your pea seeds and remove any pebbles or debris in the seed. Pea seed should be dry and firm. Any soft seeds should be discarded. Don't worry if your peas are slightly different shades of pale green to nearly white. This is normal.

2. Place the pea seed in large bowl or bucket. Seed should fill the bowl no more than halfway. When soaked the seeds will double in size and fill the bowl.

3. Cover with tepid water and allow the seed to soak for 24 hours. You can hold them for a bit longer, but should plant them within 48 hours or you risk seeds rotting and losing all your seed.

4. Drain excess water from the pea seed and plant in prepared soil to a depth of 2 inches. Some prefer to space seeds 4 inches apart in a single row, but you can broadcast pea seed in a wide row if you prefer. Cover with soil and tamp down with the flat side of the hoe.

5. Keep soil moist until seedlings emerge in a week to 10 days. Germination depends on the weather. You may see sprouts within a few days if the weather is cooperative.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are delayed in planting after soaking the seeds, drain the water and spread the seeds out to dry. You may be able to save the seed this way.

• Sidedress with fertilizer once peas are 4 inches high. Mix in well with existing soil.

• Do not allow pea seeds to sit in water for more than 48 hours as they can rot.

References

• University of Florida Extension: Snow Peas