What To Know
- Growing exhibition peas is a rewarding and challenging endeavor that requires patience, attention to detail, and a love for these beautiful legumes.
- Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this guide will walk you through the process of how to grow exhibition peas, from selecting the right varieties to preparing them for the show bench.
- Dig the soil to a depth of 12 inches and loosen it with a garden fork.
Growing exhibition peas is a rewarding and challenging endeavor that requires patience, attention to detail, and a love for these beautiful legumes. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this guide will walk you through the process of how to grow exhibition peas, from selecting the right varieties to preparing them for the show bench.
Choosing the Right Exhibition Pea Varieties
The first step to growing exhibition peas is choosing the right varieties. Exhibition peas are specifically bred for their size, shape, and color, and there are numerous varieties to choose from. Some popular exhibition pea varieties include:
- Alderman: This classic variety produces large, round, and wrinkled peas with a vibrant green color.
- Bluepodded: This variety is known for its unique blue pods and large, round peas.
- Greenfeast: This variety produces large, wrinkled peas with a deep green color.
- Wando: This variety is known for its high yield and large, round peas.
When selecting varieties, consider the following factors:
- Size: Exhibition peas should be large and uniform in size.
- Shape: The peas should be round or slightly oval, and free from deformities.
- Color: The peas should be a vibrant green or blue, depending on the variety.
- Growth Habit: Some varieties are more vigorous than others, so choose a variety that is suitable for your growing conditions.
Preparing the Soil for Exhibition Peas
Exhibition peas require well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Here’s how to prepare your soil for optimal growth:
- Test your soil: Before planting, test your soil to determine its pH and nutrient levels. Exhibition peas prefer a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
- Amend your soil: If your soil is lacking in nutrients, amend it with compost, manure, or other organic matter.
- Dig and loosen the soil: Dig the soil to a depth of 12 inches and loosen it with a garden fork.
- Remove any weeds or debris: Ensure your planting area is free of weeds and other debris.
Planting Exhibition Peas
Once your soil is prepared, you can begin planting your exhibition pea seeds. Follow these steps:
- Sow seeds in rows: Sow your seeds in rows spaced 18 inches apart.
- Plant seeds 2 inches deep: Plant your seeds 2 inches deep and 2 inches apart within the rows.
- Water thoroughly: Water your seeds thoroughly after planting.
Supporting Your Exhibition Pea Plants
Exhibition pea plants can grow tall, so it’s important to provide them with support. Here are a few ways to support your plants:
- Use pea netting: Pea netting is a lightweight mesh that can be used to support your plants as they grow.
- Create a trellis: You can create a trellis using bamboo stakes or other materials.
- Support with stakes: Use individual stakes to support each plant.
Watering and Fertilizing Exhibition Peas
Exhibition peas require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Here’s how to keep your plants hydrated:
- Water deeply: Water your plants deeply, allowing the water to penetrate the soil to a depth of 6 inches.
- Avoid overwatering: Overwatering can lead to root rot, so allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilize regularly: You can fertilize your plants with a balanced fertilizer every 3 weeks.
Controlling Pests and Diseases
Exhibition peas can be susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some tips for controlling them:
- Monitor your plants: Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests or diseases.
- Use organic pest control methods: You can use organic pest control methods, such as insecticidal soap or neem oil, to control pests.
- Rotate crops: Rotating crops can help to prevent the buildup of pests and diseases in the soil.
Harvesting Exhibition Peas
Exhibition peas are ready to harvest when the pods are full and plump. Here’s how to harvest your peas:
- Pick the pods when they are mature: The pods will be firm and slightly swollen.
- Harvest pods before they become too large: Over-mature pods will be tough and stringy.
- Harvest regularly: Harvesting peas regularly will encourage the plants to produce more pods.
Preparing Exhibition Peas for Competition
Once you’ve harvested your peas, you need to prepare them for competition. Here are some tips for preparing your peas:
- Select the best peas: Choose the largest and most uniform peas from your harvest.
- Clean the peas: Clean the peas thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Store the peas properly: Store the peas in a cool, dry place until you are ready to exhibit them.
Exhibition Pea Show Tips
When exhibiting your peas, follow these tips for a successful presentation:
- Present your peas in a clear container: A clear container will allow the judges to see the peas clearly.
- Arrange your peas attractively: Arrange your peas in a uniform and pleasing manner.
- Label your peas correctly: Label your peas with the variety name and your name.
The Journey Beyond the Show Bench: Enjoying Your Exhibition Peas
While the thrill of competition is a significant part of growing exhibition peas, the true reward lies in savoring the fruits of your labor. After the show, you can enjoy your peas in various ways:
- Fresh peas: Enjoy the sweet and delicate flavor of your exhibition peas fresh from the pod.
- Frozen peas: Freeze your peas to enjoy them later in the year.
- Pea soup: Make a delicious and nutritious pea soup with your exhibition peas.
- Pea salad: Add your exhibition peas to a refreshing salad for a burst of flavor and texture.
FAQs: Answers to Your Questions
Q: When is the best time to plant exhibition peas?
A: The best time to plant exhibition peas varies depending on your location. In general, you can plant them in early spring or late summer.
Q: How long does it take for exhibition peas to mature?
A: Exhibition peas typically take 60 to 80 days to mature.
Q: What are some common problems with growing exhibition peas?
A: Some common problems include pests, diseases, and poor soil drainage.
Q: Can I save seeds from my exhibition peas?
A: Yes, but it’s important to select the best peas from your harvest to save for seed.
Q: What are the benefits of growing exhibition peas?
A: Growing exhibition peas can be a rewarding hobby, providing a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. It also encourages you to learn about the nuances of growing plants and the importance of quality and presentation.
The Final Harvest: A Celebration of Patience and Skill
Growing exhibition peas is a journey that requires dedication and a keen eye for detail. From choosing the right variety to preparing your peas for the show bench, every step is an opportunity to learn and grow. But the true reward lies in the satisfaction of cultivating these beautiful legumes and sharing them with others. So, embrace the challenges, savor the successes, and enjoy the journey of growing show-stopping exhibition peas.
