Snow peas, which are known botanically as Pisum Sativum, are a type of vegetable that can easily be grown at home. Continue reading to learn the basics of growing snow peas as well as common mistakes to avoid along the way.
Best Time to Plant Snow Peas
This will depend largely on your local climate, but as a rule of thumb, begin to plant the snow pea seeds at the tail end of winter, about a month ahead of the last frost. This is the best time to ensure that the seedlings survive the weather.
To check when snow peas are most likely to thrive in your area, see the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If you live outside the US, do a quick search for ‘plant hardiness zone + [city]’.
How to Plant Snow Peas the Right Way
There are a number of things to consider that will help you avoid some of the common mistakes of growing snow peas in your home garden.
Often overlooked, your soil can have a huge impact on how well your snow peas grow. Generally, your soil should be well-drained soil. Soil PH levels should be around 5.8 to 6.8.
roughly 2″ apart in rows, keeping rows approximately 12″ apart. roughly 2″ apart in rows, keeping each row approximately 2.5′ apart. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of about 1.5″. For each plant, be sure to sow at least a few seeds to ensure that at least one of them will germinate.
Begin thinning your snow pea seedlings plant 1 seed every 2″. do not thin. plants perform best when supported by a trellis.
How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Snow Peas
The amount of sunlight is another key to a successful harvest. Too much sunlight will dry out your snow peas. Not enough sunlight will stunt your its growth or even kill it.
Ideally, your snow peas should be getting full sun, which means as much sunlight as you can possibly give it, or at least 6 hours or more.
How Much to Water Snow Peas
As you’ve figured by now, a lot can have an impact on how well your snow peas do, and the amount of water is no different.
Ideally, the soil should be damp to touch; not soggy or bone dry. If the leaves on your snow peas begin to change colors or start to look droopy, you need to adjust how much water you’re giving it.
Unfortunately, if you give it too much or too little water, you can kill it, so it’s best to just keep an eye on it and water as needed.
How Long Does it Take Snow Peas to Germinate and Grow?
Now the fun part begins and you get to watch your snow peas grow.
It takes approximately 8-12 days to germinate, and a total of 65-70 days from seed to harvest.
When to Harvest Snow Peas
The best time to harvest your snow peas is anytime after the peas start forming, when the pods are a couple of inches long.
Snow peas can grow up to about 4 inches (10 cm) long and 0.75 inches (2 cm) across. .
What Can Snow Peas Be Used For?
Food Use: A perfect addition to stir fry dishes.
Flavor Profile: Crisp and tasty.
Can Snow Peas Grow in Pots and Containers?
Yes, you will ideally need a 12″+ containerfor each plant. This can help control weeds and keep your plant from growing out of control.
It also gives you the flexibility to move your snow peas around if you need to adjust sunlight or bring it indoors to avoid harsh weather conditions.
Are Snow Peas Safe for Bees?
Yes, snow peas are safe for bees.
According to GreenPeace.org, bees pollinate human food crops that make up about 90% of the world’s nutrition.
Given their importance in our ecosystem and food supply, I feel it is important to note that growing snow peas is bee-friendly.
