Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Peas
Varieties:
'Green Shaft' (early podding pea), 'Douce Provence', 'Bijou' (giant
snow pea)
As peas grow perfectly well outside it isn't really worth growing them as a summer
plant in the polytunnel, but they are easy to overwinter to produce a spring harvest
that will be really welcome when there is not much else available outside.
Alternatively, spring-planted snow and snap peas (collectively known as 'mange
tout') are ideal and will still be ready a month before outdoor plantings. They are
hard to beat when lightly steamed or as an addition to salads, and, because you
don't have to wait for the peas to ripen, they can be picked much earlier than
podding varieties.
Preparation
Peas like well-drained, rich soil and full sun. They can do well in poorer conditions,
but if you want a really good harvest give them a sunny spot and dig in some
organic matter beforehand. Although they are legumes and will eventually
create their own supply of nitrogen, this won't happen until the plants are well
established.
Most peas are tall and will need plenty of room to climb, so careful siting is required.
Sowing
Sow 2cm deep in root-trainer modules or biodegradable pots. It's not usually
worth the heartache of sowing direct into the earth, as mice often find them.
Plant out at 5cm tall, about 7-10cm apart in a row.
Overwintering peas
Sow a 'round' seeded variety in modules from late August to early September,
planting out in late September. A few peas may appear in December (see right),
but the main picking season will be April.
Spring-planted peas
Sow in modules in late January to early February, planting out in March with
protection from frost. Hardy 'round' seeded peas should be used for very early
sowings, but as the weather warms up the more tender 'wrinkled' varieties can
be used, giving sweeter peas. The first should be ready during early May.
