When to Seed Peas
Shelling peas, snow peas, and snap peas are all cool season crops that require the same growing conditions. Once temperatures reach about 80 degrees Fahrenheit, this crop will not produce pods, so it’s important to get an early start in the spring. Sow seeds four to six weeks before your last frost date, when the soil temperature reaches around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. In warmer climates with milder winters, you can sow peas in the fall and grow them over the winter. Alternatively, semi-mild climates can use row cover to grow peas in the fall.
Where to Plant Peas
Choose a spot in your garden that gets full sun, at least six hours of sunlight per day. Full sun is required for pod development. Peas will like well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients, but soil that is too high in nitrogen will produce beautiful foliage but little to no flowers or pods.
Growing Peas
To increase germinating rates, soak seeds in water overnight ahead of planting. Direct seed your peas in the garden, seeding ½ inch deep and two inches apart. Rows can be planted 24 inches apart. Peas need to be trellised so install your trellising system at planting time. Keep your seedlings well-watered until germination and until they are about three inches tall. At this point, take care not to overwater to avoid rotting the roots of your peas. Peas will need about an inch of water per week throughout the growing season. Mulching will help hold in moisture and control weeds.
Harvesting Peas
The pods will start to form after flowers. For shelling peas, wait to harvest until you see nice, full pods, with the hint of the shape of peas visible beneath the pods. For snow peas, the pods are best picked when young, tender, and just starting to fill out. Snap peas should be harvested somewhere in between those two qualities. You’re looking for a nice, full pod, but before you can really see the pea seeds - as the pods start to get fibrous. The more you harvest, the more pods will be produced.
