What To Know
- If you’re looking for a foolproof way to add a touch of spring to your garden and your meals, learning how to grow Early Onward peas is a must.
- You can fertilize your peas with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, or with a compost tea.
- To prevent pea weevils, you can plant your peas early in the season or use row covers to protect them.
Early Onward peas are a gardener’s dream! These sweet, tender peas are known for their early maturity, bringing a burst of flavor to your table long before other varieties. If you’re looking for a foolproof way to add a touch of spring to your garden and your meals, learning how to grow Early Onward peas is a must.
Choosing the Right Spot for Your Early Onward Peas
Before you start planting, it’s crucial to select the perfect spot for your Early Onward peas. These plants thrive in full sun, so choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Early Onward peas also prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
If your soil is heavy clay or poorly drained, you can amend it with compost or other organic materials to improve its structure. To test your soil’s pH, you can purchase a kit from your local garden center. Early Onward peas prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.
Preparing Your Garden Bed
Once you’ve chosen your location, prepare your garden bed for planting. Start by removing any weeds and debris. Then, till the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches. Incorporate a generous amount of compost or other organic matter into the soil to improve its fertility and drainage.
If you’re planting in a raised bed, make sure it’s at least 12 inches deep. You can also use a garden bed that is slightly elevated to improve drainage.
Planting Your Early Onward Pea Seeds
Early Onward peas are typically sown directly into the garden. Wait until the soil has warmed to at least 50°F before planting. You can plant your seeds in rows or in clusters. If you’re planting in rows, space the seeds 2-3 inches apart and about 1 inch deep. If you’re planting in clusters, space the clusters 12-18 inches apart.
After planting, water the seeds thoroughly. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. It’s important to water your peas regularly, especially during dry spells.
Providing Support for Your Growing Peas
Early Onward peas are vining plants, meaning they need support to grow upright. You can provide support using a variety of methods, such as:
- Trellises: Trellises are a popular choice for supporting peas. They come in a variety of sizes and materials. You can buy a pre-made trellis or build your own from wood, metal, or bamboo.
- Pea Teepees: Pea teepees are another great option for supporting peas. They are easy to build and add a charming touch to your garden. Simply stake four poles in the ground and tie them together at the top.
- String or Twine: You can also support your peas by tying them to string or twine. Simply run string or twine along the top of your garden bed and tie the vines to the string or twine as they grow.
Fertilizing Your Early Onward Peas
Early Onward peas are relatively light feeders, but they do benefit from a little extra fertilizer. You can fertilize your peas with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, or with a compost tea. Apply fertilizer every few weeks, following the instructions on the package.
Watering Your Early Onward Peas
Early Onward peas need regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water your peas deeply, making sure to soak the soil to a depth of 4-6 inches. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. You can also use a mulch to help retain moisture in the soil.
Protecting Your Early Onward Peas from Pests and Diseases
Early Onward peas are susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. Here are a few tips for preventing and controlling pests and diseases:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from plants. They can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Pea Weevils: Pea weevils are small beetles that lay their eggs in pea pods. The larvae hatch and feed on the peas, making them inedible. To prevent pea weevils, you can plant your peas early in the season or use row covers to protect them.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause white, powdery spots to appear on leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, you can space your plants properly and avoid overhead watering.
Harvesting Your Early Onward Peas
Early Onward peas are ready for harvest when the pods are plump and firm. To harvest, simply snap the pods off the vine. You can harvest your peas over a period of several weeks. To encourage continued production, pinch off the tips of the vines once the first few pods have been harvested.
Enjoying Your Delicious Early Onward Peas
Early Onward peas are delicious fresh, but they can also be frozen or canned. To freeze your peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain the peas and spread them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, you can transfer them to a freezer bag. To can your peas, follow the instructions on a canning recipe.
A Bountiful Harvest: The End of Your Early Onward Pea Journey
Congratulations! You’ve successfully grown a delicious crop of Early Onward peas. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and savor the sweet, tender flavor of these early-maturing peas.
Information You Need to Know
Q: How long does it take for Early Onward peas to mature?
A: Early Onward peas typically mature in 55-60 days after planting.
Q: Can I grow Early Onward peas in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow Early Onward peas in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide. Make sure to provide adequate drainage.
Q: What are some tips for storing fresh peas?
A: Store fresh peas in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or airtight container. They will last for up to 3 days.
Q: What are some other early-maturing pea varieties?
A: Other early-maturing pea varieties include:
- Wando: This variety is known for its sweet flavor and high yield.
- Sugar Snap: This variety is a snap pea, meaning you can eat the entire pod.
- Snowbird: This variety is a shelling pea that is known for its disease resistance.
