Peas

Pea seed can be planted directly into the ground during the cool season. Pea seeds germinate best in cool, moist soil and can benefit from a quick soaking before planting. Keep soil moist during germination to ensure quick and even sprouting of seeds. We plant pea seeds in the fall on our farm and allow them to take over our trellis all winter and spring long. Harvest peas are often the most bountiful crop.  Peas can be grown for several different types of crops. Shelling peas are grown for mature peas that can be cooked and eaten. Snow peas or sugar peas are specifically grown for their tasty pods. In mild regions, peas can be overwintered. Mulch heavily around pea plants in warmer regions to ensure ample moisture in the soil.  Although the origins of domesticated peas have not been concretely confirmed, peas are a very old cultivated crop. Peas hold a special place in our hearts as pea plants were used famously in the mid-1800s by Gregor Mendel in his world-changing studies of heredity and genetics. He used peas to understand the basic information that we have built modern genetics on today! Peas are a great crop to plant in a children's garden, a food garden, and even an ornamental garden as their flowers are very beautiful. Peas do best when allowed to climb up a structure such as a fence or a trellis. Plant peas in full sun and protect from extreme heat or frost. Plant pea seeds this season in your garden!