How to Save Pea Seeds

Peas self-pollinate, which reduces crossing between varieties and makes them vigorous contenders in maintaining gene traits. When choosing peas to save, be sure to select peas from plants that possess the most favorable characteristics. Some characteristics to consider include vine growers, bush type, edible pod, best for canning, best for freezing, and early varieties. Regardless of which variety you select, pea seeds can be saved directly from your garden for next year's planting when stored properly.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pea plant
• Container for harvesting pea pods
• Glass jar with lid
• Paper
• Pen

How to Save Pea Seeds

1. Leave enough pea pods on the plant during the last harvest to save for future planting.

2. Allow the pea pods to ripen beyond maturity (four to six weeks after last harvest) while on the vine.

3. Lay newspaper in a warm, dry area, preferably indoors.

4. Pick dried pea pods from plant and spread out evenly on newspaper.

5. Allow pea pods to dry for two weeks.

6. Open pea pods with your hands to remove pea seeds.

7. Discard pea pods.

8. Place pea seeds in a glass jar to store until you're ready to plant.

9. Write on a small piece of paper the type of seed and date; place inside jar for easy identification.

10. Seal lid on glass jar tightly.

11. Store pea seeds in a cool, dry place (refrigerator is ideal).

Tips & Warnings

• If frost threatens drying pea pods, pull the entire plant up root first, and hang to dry in a cool, dry area until pods have turned brown.
• Do not rush the drying process. One damp seed in a sealed jar can rot and ruin all your pea seeds.

References

• University of Minnesota Extension
• SeedSave.org
• University of Arkansas - Division of Agriculture

Resources

• Virginia Cooperative Extension