How to Plant Peas Indoors

Peas are a green vegetable that come in a wide variety. Peas are generally divided into three classifications consisting of snow peas (sugar peas), garden peas and snap peas. Peas are well known for doing well in cooler conditions, but can also be planted indoors. Planting peas indoors is not difficult and can be done in a few simple steps.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Package of pea seeds
• Potting soil
• Water
• Seed trays
• Mini greenhouse
• Plant light
• Clippers

Planting

1. Choose which variety of pea to plant indoors. Consider what variety of peas you find pleasing to the taste.

2. Prepare the pea for planting. Nick or create a small slit in the shell with a pair of nail clippers, razor blade or other cutting object. Place the shell in warm (not hot) water for 24 hours.

3. Choose a container in which the seeds will be planted. Just about anything will do, including seed trays and flower pots. Peat pellets or a mini plastic greenhouse can also be used. Fill the container with potting soil. Water the container.

4. Dig a hole one-inch deep. Dig two holes per pot or pellet. Push a seed into each hole with your finger. Wet the container thoroughly.

5. Place the container in a cool place, preferably with sun exposure to the south. Grow (or plant) lights can also be placed over the container. If using a light, any spot in the house will suffice, providing it is not in too warm a place. Keep the container watered and wait until the seeds sprout, usually in 10 to 15 days. Continue to keep the plants in a cool place in order to get them accustomed to the temperature outdoors. Make sure the plants receive lots of sunlight after germination. Pluck or pinch off the weaker stem at the base of the plant seven days after it sprouts.

Tips & Warnings

• Plant the seeds indoors approximately two months before the last frost in your vicinity, or as recommended on the back of the seek packet. Keep in mind the instructions could vary depending on the variety of the pea.
• When preparing the shell, cut a slit into the shell cover, not the seed itself. When trimming the second sprout after it has emerged, make sure not to damage the root system. Use potting soil, not garden soil.

References

• Watch Your Garden Grow
• Renee's Garden