Peas are from the legume family and there are two main kinds; shelling peas, which you open up the pods and remove the peas and snap peas, which pods are edible so you can eat the entire thing. You can check out a variety of heirloom peas at Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds, here. I already had my pea seeds for this year but next year I will definitely be getting the violet blue pea variety!
Seed Starting and Propagation
Pre-soak seeds 12 hours prior to planting. Plant seeds directly in garden 6 weeks before last frost (1st week in April for zone 5). Plant 1" deep in full sun, 3-4" apart or 8 plants per square foot.
Care
Peas like moist but well drained soil, they will start to turn yellow if they are getting too much water. Water weekly about 2-3" and as the plant matures apply mulch to keep the roots cool, retain moisture and prevent weeds. Peas are a vine plant so they will need a trellis or pole to grow up - I just use bamboo poles.
Companion Planting
Peas grow well with carrots, turnips, radishes, cucumbers, corn, beans and potatoes. They also like aromatic herbs. Do not plant with onions, garlic or gladiolus.
Harvesting and Preserving
Carefully pick or cut pods off their stems at any stage of growth. For preserving wait until the pods are bulging before picking. Once you are done harvesting turn the entire plant right into the soil for some added nitrogen or pull up the plant and put into the compost pile. Pea can be bottled, frozen, or dehydrated although the best flavor is fresh from the vine.
Seed Saving
Allow the pods to dry right on the plant, this usually happens by early summer. Pick and open the pods to remove the seeds, then lay on a screen to complete the drying process. Once dried, store in a jar, envelope or plastic bag where they will keep for 4-5 years.
Nutrients
Peas are a good source of vitamins A, B, C, and K, folic acid, antioxidants, calcium, iron, zinc, manganese and a variety of other minerals as well as protein and fiber.
Resources
Nutritionandyou.com green peas nutrition facts.
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