Pea

How to care for pea

• Light: Requires full sun for at least 6 hours daily, but can tolerate some partial shade, especially in warmer climates. Good light promotes better pod fill.
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist, particularly when plants are flowering and forming pods. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Avoid heavy, compacted soils.
• Temperature: Cool-season crop, thrives in temperatures between 55-70°F (13-21°C). Plant in early spring as they tolerate light frost.
• Humidity: Normal outdoor humidity is suitable. Good air circulation is beneficial to prevent fungal issues in humid conditions.
• Fertilizer: Peas are nitrogen-fixers, so they generally don't need additional nitrogen. Amend soil with compost before planting.
• Propagation: Propagate by planting seeds directly into the garden in early spring. Soaking seeds overnight can aid germination.

Is pea toxic to pets?

Pet-safe. Garden peas (Pisum sativum) are generally safe for cats, dogs, and people. See our guide to toxic plants for cats and dogs.

Common problems

• Powdery mildew: Plant resistant varieties, ensure good air circulation, and water plants at the base to keep foliage dry.
• Aphids: Spray with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap, or encourage natural predators like ladybugs.

Did you know?

There are three main types of peas: garden peas (shelled), snow peas (edible flat pods), and snap peas (edible round pods).

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