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General Information
Common edible pea, which is originally from southern Europe. Plant comes in vining and bush forms. Grows best in the cool, humid conditions of late fall through early spring.
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Plant Care Instruction
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- January
- February
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- November
- December
January1. BuyBuy plants in the nursery when available.2. PlantPlant in a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.3. Sow SeedsSoak seeds overnight before sowing. Plant in light, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly neutral. Plant seed 1/2-inch deep, 2 to 4 inches apart in the ground. Seed can also be planted in containers for later transplant. Keep soil moist but not soggy during germination.4. FertilizeIf not done the prior month, fertilize when the plant begins to flower with a balanced fertilizer designed for vegetable crops. Avoid overfeeding, as excessive nitrogen leads to foliage but no flowers.5. WaterKeep soil surrounding plants moist but not soggy. If soil is moist and Santa Ana winds blow, mist foliage to keep plants from drying out.6. Pest/Disease InspectionCheck for signs of aphids and powdery mildew.7. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat aphids by rinsing plants with a strong spray of water--repeating once a day until they are gone. If aphids persist, treat with insecticidal soap. For powdery mildew treatment, remove and dispose of affected leaves and prevent further infestation by spraying remaining foliage with horticultural oil, neem oil or a biological fungicide.8. TransplantTransplant plants seeded in containers to a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.9. HarvestMost peas are ready to harvest 55 to 70 days after seeding. Start harvesting shelling peas when they have swelled to almost a round shape and are bright green in color. Harvest edible-pod peas before they begin swelling when they reach 2 to 3 inches long. Harvest regularly, as peas allowed to over-ripen on the vine will cause the plant to stop producing.10. Special requirementsVining types of peas require trellising.February1. BuyBuy plants in the nursery when available.2. PlantPlant in a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.3. Sow SeedsSoak seeds overnight before sowing. Plant in light, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly neutral. Plant seed 1/2-inch deep, 2 to 4 inches apart in the ground. Seed can also be planted in containers for later transplant. Keep soil moist but not soggy during germination.4. FertilizeIf not done the prior month, fertilize when the plant begins to flower with a balanced fertilizer designed for vegetable crops. Avoid overfeeding, as excessive nitrogen leads to foliage but no flowers.5. WaterKeep soil surrounding plants moist but not soggy. If soil is moist and Santa Ana winds blow, mist foliage to keep plants from drying out.6. Pest/Disease InspectionCheck for signs of aphids and powdery mildew.7. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat aphids by rinsing plants with a strong spray of water--repeating once a day until they are gone. If aphids persist, treat with insecticidal soap. For powdery mildew treatment, remove and dispose of affected leaves and prevent further infestation by spraying remaining foliage with horticultural oil, neem oil or a biological fungicide.8. TransplantTransplant plants seeded in containers to a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.9. HarvestMost peas are ready to harvest 55 to 70 days after seeding. Start harvesting shelling peas when they have swelled to almost a round shape and are bright green in color. Harvest edible-pod peas before they begin swelling when they reach 2 to 3 inches long. Harvest regularly, as peas allowed to over-ripen on the vine will cause the plant to stop producing.10. Special requirementsVining types of peas require trellising.March1. WaterKeep soil surrounding plants moist but not soggy. If soil is moist and Santa Ana winds blow, mist foliage to keep plants from drying out.2. MulchMulch with a 1-inch layer of shredded bark to keep soil cool and moist.3. Pest/Disease InspectionCheck for signs of aphids and powdery mildew.4. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat aphids by rinsing plants with a strong spray of water--repeating once a day until they are gone. If aphids persist, treat with insecticidal soap. For powdery mildew treatment, remove and dispose of affected leaves and prevent further infestation by spraying remaining foliage with horticultural oil, neem oil or a biological fungicide.5. TransplantTransplant plants seeded in containers to a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.6. HarvestMost peas are ready to harvest 55 to 70 days after seeding. Start harvesting shelling peas when they have swelled to almost a round shape and are bright green in color. Harvest edible-pod peas before they begin swelling when they reach 2 to 3 inches long. Harvest regularly, as peas allowed to over-ripen on the vine will cause the plant to stop producing.7. Special requirementsVining types of peas require trellising.April1. WaterKeep soil surrounding plants moist but not soggy. If soil is moist and Santa Ana winds blow, mist foliage to keep plants from drying out.2. MulchMulch with a 1-inch layer of shredded bark to keep soil cool and moist.3. Pest/Disease InspectionCheck for signs of aphids and powdery mildew.4. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat aphids by rinsing plants with a strong spray of water--repeating once a day until they are gone. If aphids persist, treat with insecticidal soap. For powdery mildew treatment, remove and dispose of affected leaves and prevent further infestation by spraying remaining foliage with horticultural oil, neem oil or a biological fungicide.5. HarvestMost peas are ready to harvest 55 to 70 days after seeding. Start harvesting shelling peas when they have swelled to almost a round shape and are bright green in color. Harvest edible-pod peas before they begin swelling when they reach 2 to 3 inches long. Harvest regularly, as peas allowed to over-ripen on the vine will cause the plant to stop producing.6. Special requirementsVining types of peas require trellising.September1. Sow SeedsSoak seeds overnight before sowing. Plant in light, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly neutral. Plant seed 1/2-inch deep, 2 to 4 inches apart in the ground. Seed can also be planted in containers for later transplant. Keep soil moist but not soggy during germination.October1. Sow SeedsSoak seeds overnight before sowing. Plant in light, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly neutral. Plant seed 1/2-inch deep, 2 to 4 inches apart in the ground. Seed can also be planted in containers for later transplant. Keep soil moist but not soggy during germination.November1. BuyBuy plants in the nursery when available.2. PlantPlant in a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.3. Sow SeedsSoak seeds overnight before sowing. Plant in light, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly neutral. Plant seed 1/2-inch deep, 2 to 4 inches apart in the ground. Seed can also be planted in containers for later transplant. Keep soil moist but not soggy during germination.4. WaterKeep soil surrounding plants moist but not soggy. If soil is moist and Santa Ana winds blow, mist foliage to keep plants from drying out.5. Pest/Disease InspectionCheck for signs of aphids and powdery mildew.6. Special requirementsVining types of peas require trellising.December1. BuyBuy plants in the nursery when available.2. PlantPlant in a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.3. Sow SeedsSoak seeds overnight before sowing. Plant in light, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly neutral. Plant seed 1/2-inch deep, 2 to 4 inches apart in the ground. Seed can also be planted in containers for later transplant. Keep soil moist but not soggy during germination.4. FertilizeWhen the plant begins to flower, fertilize with a balanced fertilizer designed for vegetable crops.5. WaterKeep soil surrounding plants moist but not soggy. If soil is moist and Santa Ana winds blow, mist foliage to keep plants from drying out.6. Pest/Disease InspectionCheck for signs of aphids and powdery mildew.7. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat aphids by rinsing plants with a strong spray of water--repeating once a day until they are gone. If aphids persist, treat with insecticidal soap. For powdery mildew treatment, remove and dispose of affected leaves and prevent further infestation by spraying remaining foliage with horticultural oil, neem oil or a biological fungicide.8. TransplantTransplant plants seeded in containers to a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.9. HarvestMost peas are ready to harvest 55 to 70 days after seeding. Start harvesting shelling peas when they have swelled to almost a round shape and are bright green in color. Harvest edible-pod peas before they begin swelling when they reach 2 to 3 inches long. Harvest regularly, as peas allowed to over-ripen on the vine will cause the plant to stop producing.10. Special requirementsVining types of peas require trellising. -
Buy
When's the best time to buy this plant? When can you buy these from seed (if you can)? When is it usually available? What are things to look for when you're buying it? Or anything other tidbit of information you can share!
January
Buy plants in the nursery when available.
February
Buy plants in the nursery when available.
November
Buy plants in the nursery when available.
December
Buy plants in the nursery when available.
Plant
When's a good time to plant this plant or bulb? Any special planting instructions?
January
Plant in a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.
February
Plant in a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.
November
Plant in a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.
December
Plant in a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.
Sow Seeds
When can you plant these seeds? When's the best time? Can you start them indoors and move them out? Do they have any special requirements?
January
Soak seeds overnight before sowing. Plant in light, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly neutral. Plant seed 1/2-inch deep, 2 to 4 inches apart in the ground. Seed can also be planted in containers for later transplant. Keep soil moist but not soggy during germination.
February
Soak seeds overnight before sowing. Plant in light, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly neutral. Plant seed 1/2-inch deep, 2 to 4 inches apart in the ground. Seed can also be planted in containers for later transplant. Keep soil moist but not soggy during germination.
September
Soak seeds overnight before sowing. Plant in light, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly neutral. Plant seed 1/2-inch deep, 2 to 4 inches apart in the ground. Seed can also be planted in containers for later transplant. Keep soil moist but not soggy during germination.
October
Soak seeds overnight before sowing. Plant in light, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly neutral. Plant seed 1/2-inch deep, 2 to 4 inches apart in the ground. Seed can also be planted in containers for later transplant. Keep soil moist but not soggy during germination.
November
Soak seeds overnight before sowing. Plant in light, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly neutral. Plant seed 1/2-inch deep, 2 to 4 inches apart in the ground. Seed can also be planted in containers for later transplant. Keep soil moist but not soggy during germination.
December
Soak seeds overnight before sowing. Plant in light, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly neutral. Plant seed 1/2-inch deep, 2 to 4 inches apart in the ground. Seed can also be planted in containers for later transplant. Keep soil moist but not soggy during germination.
Fertilize
When should you fertilize this plant? Which kind of fertilizer do you recommend? Should you use different fertilizers at different times of year?
January
If not done the prior month, fertilize when the plant begins to flower with a balanced fertilizer designed for vegetable crops. Avoid overfeeding, as excessive nitrogen leads to foliage but no flowers.
February
If not done the prior month, fertilize when the plant begins to flower with a balanced fertilizer designed for vegetable crops. Avoid overfeeding, as excessive nitrogen leads to foliage but no flowers.
December
When the plant begins to flower, fertilize with a balanced fertilizer designed for vegetable crops.
Water
Is there a time to reduce or increase watering? Any special requirements? Things to avoid during certain times of the year?
January
Keep soil surrounding plants moist but not soggy. If soil is moist and Santa Ana winds blow, mist foliage to keep plants from drying out.
February
Keep soil surrounding plants moist but not soggy. If soil is moist and Santa Ana winds blow, mist foliage to keep plants from drying out.
March
Keep soil surrounding plants moist but not soggy. If soil is moist and Santa Ana winds blow, mist foliage to keep plants from drying out.
April
Keep soil surrounding plants moist but not soggy. If soil is moist and Santa Ana winds blow, mist foliage to keep plants from drying out.
November
Keep soil surrounding plants moist but not soggy. If soil is moist and Santa Ana winds blow, mist foliage to keep plants from drying out.
December
Keep soil surrounding plants moist but not soggy. If soil is moist and Santa Ana winds blow, mist foliage to keep plants from drying out.
Mulch
Does this plant need to be mulched? Are there specific types of Mulch which are better for this plant? How much?
March
Mulch with a 1-inch layer of shredded bark to keep soil cool and moist.
April
Mulch with a 1-inch layer of shredded bark to keep soil cool and moist.
Pest/Disease Inspection
What are the common problems this plant will face and when should you look for them to appear?
January
Check for signs of aphids and powdery mildew.
February
Check for signs of aphids and powdery mildew.
March
Check for signs of aphids and powdery mildew.
April
Check for signs of aphids and powdery mildew.
November
Check for signs of aphids and powdery mildew.
December
Check for signs of aphids and powdery mildew.
Treat for Pest/Disease
How do you treat the common problems for this plant? What products or concoctions or natural means do you use? Any special requirements?
January
Treat aphids by rinsing plants with a strong spray of water--repeating once a day until they are gone. If aphids persist, treat with insecticidal soap. For powdery mildew treatment, remove and dispose of affected leaves and prevent further infestation by spraying remaining foliage with horticultural oil, neem oil or a biological fungicide.
February
Treat aphids by rinsing plants with a strong spray of water--repeating once a day until they are gone. If aphids persist, treat with insecticidal soap. For powdery mildew treatment, remove and dispose of affected leaves and prevent further infestation by spraying remaining foliage with horticultural oil, neem oil or a biological fungicide.
March
Treat aphids by rinsing plants with a strong spray of water--repeating once a day until they are gone. If aphids persist, treat with insecticidal soap. For powdery mildew treatment, remove and dispose of affected leaves and prevent further infestation by spraying remaining foliage with horticultural oil, neem oil or a biological fungicide.
April
Treat aphids by rinsing plants with a strong spray of water--repeating once a day until they are gone. If aphids persist, treat with insecticidal soap. For powdery mildew treatment, remove and dispose of affected leaves and prevent further infestation by spraying remaining foliage with horticultural oil, neem oil or a biological fungicide.
December
Treat aphids by rinsing plants with a strong spray of water--repeating once a day until they are gone. If aphids persist, treat with insecticidal soap. For powdery mildew treatment, remove and dispose of affected leaves and prevent further infestation by spraying remaining foliage with horticultural oil, neem oil or a biological fungicide.
Transplant
When's the best time to dig up and transplant this from one spot to another? (This is different than planting). Any special requirements?
January
Transplant plants seeded in containers to a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.
February
Transplant plants seeded in containers to a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.
March
Transplant plants seeded in containers to a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.
December
Transplant plants seeded in containers to a full-sun location in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acid to slightly alkaline. If organic matter is low, work in 2 to 4 inches of homemade or bagged compost. Plant 4 inches apart with 2 feet between rows for bush types and 4 feet between rows for tall, vining varieties.
Harvest
When's a good time to harvest this plant? What's the best way to harvest? Are there special requirements or features?
January
Most peas are ready to harvest 55 to 70 days after seeding. Start harvesting shelling peas when they have swelled to almost a round shape and are bright green in color. Harvest edible-pod peas before they begin swelling when they reach 2 to 3 inches long. Harvest regularly, as peas allowed to over-ripen on the vine will cause the plant to stop producing.
February
Most peas are ready to harvest 55 to 70 days after seeding. Start harvesting shelling peas when they have swelled to almost a round shape and are bright green in color. Harvest edible-pod peas before they begin swelling when they reach 2 to 3 inches long. Harvest regularly, as peas allowed to over-ripen on the vine will cause the plant to stop producing.
March
Most peas are ready to harvest 55 to 70 days after seeding. Start harvesting shelling peas when they have swelled to almost a round shape and are bright green in color. Harvest edible-pod peas before they begin swelling when they reach 2 to 3 inches long. Harvest regularly, as peas allowed to over-ripen on the vine will cause the plant to stop producing.
April
Most peas are ready to harvest 55 to 70 days after seeding. Start harvesting shelling peas when they have swelled to almost a round shape and are bright green in color. Harvest edible-pod peas before they begin swelling when they reach 2 to 3 inches long. Harvest regularly, as peas allowed to over-ripen on the vine will cause the plant to stop producing.
December
Most peas are ready to harvest 55 to 70 days after seeding. Start harvesting shelling peas when they have swelled to almost a round shape and are bright green in color. Harvest edible-pod peas before they begin swelling when they reach 2 to 3 inches long. Harvest regularly, as peas allowed to over-ripen on the vine will cause the plant to stop producing.
Special requirements
Any other requirement for this plant? Is there anything that doesn't fit into the other care categories?
January
Vining types of peas require trellising.
February
Vining types of peas require trellising.
March
Vining types of peas require trellising.
April
Vining types of peas require trellising.
November
Vining types of peas require trellising.
December
Vining types of peas require trellising.
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