Planting Fall Pea Varieties
As the crisp air of autumn ushers in a new season, gardeners and farmers can take advantage of the cooler temperatures by planting fall pea varieties. Peas, with their sweet flavor and abundant nutritional value, thrive in the milder weather of fall and offer a diverse range of options. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of planting fall peas, discuss the ideal planting techniques, and provide valuable tips for a successful and bountiful harvest.
Benefits of Planting Fall Pea Varieties
Extended Growing Season
Fall peas capitalize on the cooler temperatures and reduced pest activity, allowing for an extended growing period and higher yields.
Nutritional Powerhouses
Peas are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet. Growing them in your fall garden ensures a fresh and nutrient-packed harvest.
Soil Enhancement
Peas, like other legumes, have the unique ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, enriching it and benefitting subsequent plantings.
Selecting the Right Pea Varieties
Shelling Peas
Varieties such as 'Green Arrow,' 'Wando,' and 'Lincoln' are popular choices for fall planting. These peas are grown primarily for their plump, sweet peas that need to be shelled before consumption.
Snap Peas
'Sugar Ann,' 'Cascadia,' and 'Super Sugar Snap' are snap pea varieties that are enjoyed both for their tender, edible pods and their sweet peas inside. They offer a delightful combination of crispness and flavor.
Snow Peas
'Oregon Giant,' 'Mammoth Melting Sugar,' and 'Golden Sweet' are snow pea varieties known for their flat, edible pods. They are harvested when the pods are still flat and the peas inside are tiny and tender.
Planting Techniques for Fall Peas
Timing
Determine the average first frost date in your area and count backward to establish the ideal planting time. Plant peas approximately 8 to 10 weeks before the first expected frost.
Soil Preparation
Prepare the soil by removing weeds and debris. Loosen it and incorporate organic matter, such as compost, to improve drainage and fertility.
Sowing Seeds
Directly sow pea seeds in the garden bed, as they do not transplant well. Plant them about 1 inch deep and 1 to 2 inches apart, leaving 18 to 24 inches between rows for vining varieties.
Watering and Mulching
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during germination and pod development. Apply a layer of organic mulch, like straw or shredded leaves, to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Essential Care and Maintenance
Trellising
Vining pea varieties require support for optimal growth and to prevent pods from touching the ground. Install trellises, stakes, or a pea tower to guide the vines upward, ensuring good air circulation and easier harvesting.
Fertilization
Peas generally do not require heavy fertilization, especially if the soil is already rich in organic matter. However, a balanced organic fertilizer can be applied during planting if necessary.
Pest and Disease Control
Regularly inspect pea plants for common pests such as aphids, pea weevils, and powdery mildew. Employ organic pest control methods, such as handpicking insects or using neem oil, to address any issues promptly.
Harvesting and Storage
Harvesting
Shelling peas should be harvested when the pods are plump and well-filled, but before they become tough and starchy. Snap peas are best picked when the pods are plump and snap easily. Snow peas are harvested while the pods are still flat and the peas inside are tender. Regular harvesting encourages continuous production.
Storage
Enjoy fresh peas immediately for the best flavor and texture. If you have an abundance, blanch and freeze them for long-term storage, or consider canning or pickling them to preserve their quality.
Planting fall pea varieties provides an exciting opportunity to extend your growing season and enjoy a fresh, flavorful harvest. By selecting the right varieties, practicing proper planting techniques, and providing essential care, you can ensure a successful and rewarding experience in your fall garden. So, get ready to savor the delectable taste of homegrown peas while embracing the beauty of autumn in your vegetable patch.
Fun Fact:
In England, any edible-pod (snap or snow) pea is referred to as “mangetout”. Mange tout means “eat all” in French. However, in France snow peas are usually called “pois gourmand”. At some point historically, the British borrowed the French term and it stuck. Although we don’t have an exact time for when the term caught on in England, we can assume it was sometime in the 1700-1800s since we don’t commonly see “mangetout” in American English.