Peas: The First Crop of Spring
Peas are the first vegetable you can plant in spring. They mature in 60–70 days and fix nitrogen in the soil. Plant as soon as soil can be worked.
Peas tolerate cold soil (45°F). They’re the earliest crop in most gardens.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to sprout | 7-14 |
| Days to harvest | 60-70 |
| Sun | 6 hours |
| Spacing | 2-3 inches |
| Height | 2-6 feet (depends on type) |
| Flavor | Sweet, starchy |
Why Grow It
- Earliest crop. Plant 4-6 weeks before last frost.
- Nitrogen-fixing. Improves soil for next crop.
- Sweet flavor. Homegrown peas are far sweeter than frozen.
- Three types. Shelling, snap, snow.
How It Fails
Failure 1: Powdery mildew. Late season. Plant early. Failure 2: No pods. Too hot (above 80°F). Plant earlier. Failure 3: Yellow leaves. Nitrogen deficiency or root rot.
Comparison
| Variety | Type | Days | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shelling | Round peas | 60-70 | Fresh eating |
| Snap | Edible pod | 60-70 | Stir fry, snacking |
| Snow | Flat pod | 60-70 | Stir fry |
| Dwarf | Compact | 55-65 | Containers |
Common Questions
When do I plant peas? As soon as soil can be worked. 4-6 weeks before last frost.
Do peas need a trellis? Most do. Dwarf types don’t.
How many peas per plant? 50-100 pods per plant, depending on variety.
Why are my peas not producing? Too hot. Above 80°F, peas stop producing.
Can I grow them in containers? Yes. 12-inch pot + trellis.
Do I need to fertilize? No. They fix their own nitrogen.