Pea pea Peas thrive in cool weather and are among the earliest crops to sow outdoors. Three main groups are grown: shelling/marrowfat peas (häls ‘garden peas’ for shelled seeds), snap peas (edible thick pods, crisp when seeds are partly filled), and snow peas (flat, tender pods harvested before seeds swell). Dwarf/bush types reach 45–80 cm and often manage with short twiggy supports; tall/indeterminate types can reach 150–200+ cm and need sturdy trellises or netting. They fix nitrogen with Rhizobium bacteria; inoculation can help on new soils. Best growth occurs in cool conditions (10–20°C). Heat above ~24°C or drought reduces flowering and pod fill. Good airflow limits powdery mildew late in the season. Birds may pull seedlings; use netting or fleece until plants establish. Growing conditions LightFull sun to light partial shade (6–10 hours of direct sun). Soil typeMoist but well-drained loam enriched with compost; avoid waterlogging. Fine tilth for direct sowing. Water requirementModerate and steady. Keep evenly moist, especially during flowering and pod fill. Mulch to conserve moisture. Nutrient requirementLow to moderate. Too much nitrogen gives lush foliage but fewer pods. Provide compost and a light potassium-rich side-dress at flowering. Back to plant list
