Peas
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Many pea varieties are tall climbers, so occupy mainly vertical space. Bush varieties demand more room in the bed but are highly productive.
When to plant/sow in zone:
Requirements:
Cool conditions; good drainage; tall-growing varieties need something to climb on
Soil:
Well-drained soil enriched with compost and/or well-rotted manure or organic pellets. If pH is below 6, add lime or dolomite.
How to start: SEED: Best sown direct in the ground, 20mm deep, 10cm apart, in rows 50cm apart. Provide a trellis for climbing varieties. Keep moist. Germinates in 7-21 days. SEEDLING: Space plants 10cm apart, in rows 50cm apart, against a support for climbing varieties.
How to grow: Train climbing varieties onto a trellis. Keep moist and mulched with straw. Apply seaweed solution or liquid fertiliser fortnightly. Apply organic fertiliser pellets monthly.
When to harvest: Start harvesting from 12 weeks.
Troubleshooting:
Caterpillars; pea beetle; slugs and snails; possums; rats; birds; powdery mildew; rust
Wondering what to plant when?
Use our planner to create a planting calendar for your climate zone
View Planting Guide
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