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Peas

Pisum sativum

Vegetable

Peas are cool-season nitrogen-fixing legumes that thrive in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. They climb readily with support and are one of the first crops to go in the ground each year.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Moderate

Soil

Well-draining loam; pH 6.0–7.5

Spacing

2–4 inches

Days to Maturity

55–70 days from direct sow

Growing Zones

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

Thrives in USDA Zones 3–10

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Keep Away From

When to Plant

  • Direct Sow

    4–6 weeks before last frost; as soon as soil is workable

  • Harvest

    55–70 days; pick frequently to stimulate more pods

Organic Growing Tips

  • Provide netting or twiggy sticks for support from the earliest stage to keep vines off the ground.

  • Sow mint as a border plant to deter aphids from establishing on pea foliage.

  • Do not add nitrogen-rich compost — peas fix their own and excess nitrogen reduces yield.

  • After harvest, cut plants at ground level rather than pulling to leave nitrogen-rich roots in the soil.

Common Pests

  • Pea Moth
  • Aphids
  • Powdery Mildew
  • Pea Weevil

All pest management in Garden uses safe, organic, non-toxic methods only. No synthetic pesticides, ever.