Planting and Growing Guide for Sugar or Snap Peas (Pisum sativum var. saccharatum)
Description
Sugar/Snap pea were developed by crossing a garden pea with snow pea. They produce oval to round pods containing moderate size tender full size peas. Some snap pea varieties have strings in the pods, but these can be peeled off easily. Choose a variety that is resistant to powdery mildew disease. Various varieties are available including climbing, or dwarf types that grow low down in a bush form and require minimal or no support.
Sugar or Snap peas are mostly eaten for their small pods containing tender green peas. They are related to Sugar peas which have larger flat pods and tiny seeds when eaten. Sugar peas are best grown in the cooler months. Sugar peas need some form of support when growing, either frames, wire or trellises. Choose a sunny position away from strong winds but with good ventilation. Can be grown in large pots with wire cylinders or stakes as support.
Sugar Peas can be grown on a wide range of soils, but good structure, fertility and drainage is essential for vigorous growth. The preferred pH range is 6.0 to 7.0. Lime needs to be added to acidic soils.
Sugar Peas do best in cool and moist growing conditions. The crop is sensitive to heat. Temperatures above 30 degrees C (85 degrees F) leads to poor pollination, reduced yields and early maturity problems. The ideal average daily temperatures for growing Sugar Peas is 15-18 degrees C (60-65 degrees F) with a maximum of 24 degrees C (75 degrees F) and minimum 7 degrees C (45 degrees F. Stems and foliage are seldom affected by frost, but flowers are made sterile by frost and pods can be damaged causing white mottled skin. Choose a planting date to avoid frost from the flowering stage onwards.Pick the pods early before the pods toughen. Continuously harvest to encourage new pods. Both the whole pods and shoots can be eaten raw in salads whole. They can also be steamed, briefly boiled, used in 'stir-fry' and Asian dishes.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Sow seed 2 cm (3/4 inch) deep in seed trays. Plant out after 4-6 weeks when frosts are unlikely to affect the flowers or young pods. Seed can easily be grown directly into the garden after the last frosts. Seeds germinate in 7-14 days, depending on the variety.
Space between plants: Space plants about 8-10 cm (3-4 inches) apart. Allow 60 to 70 cm (18 to 24 inches) between rows. Most varieties require support
Harvest Time: Harvest in about 25-35 days.
Hints:
- Does best in full sun
- Feed regularly with fertiliser or well-rotted compost as plants grow
- Does best in rich, well-drained soil with neutral to slightly acid pH
- Keep the soil around the plants covered in a thick layer of mulch, and water regularly. Feed regularly during the growing season
- Does not cope with hot weather and so grow in milder months
- Plant seed in batches under support every few weeks to get a continuous supply
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!