How to Grow Peas

A cool-season fruiting for the home garden across the warmer US.

Peas are a rewarding cool-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Peas are a cool-season crop. In the South and Southwest, plant in fall through winter when the heat eases. See your region on the peas page for exact timing.

Varieties

• Wando, More heat-tolerant shelling pea (Southern Exposure Seed Exchange)
• Green Arrow, Heavy yields of slender pods (Johnny's Selected Seeds)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 10 cm (4 in) between plants.
• Sowing: sow about 3 cm deep.
• Water: roughly 5 L per plant every 2 days in hot weather.
• Containers: grows well in a pot of 25cm+ with trellis.

Pests & problems

Watch for Aphids and Pea weevil. In humid regions, Powdery mildew, Pea rust and Fusarium wilt can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Peas are usually ready to harvest in about 2 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant peas where you garden.

See also: Peas in the plant library →

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