Peas

pea pods

Peas are one of the most cold-tolerant plants grown in Kansas gardens. They can be planted about as early as soil can be prepared in the spring. Most varieties produce pods and the seeds need to be shelled. Several newer varieties produce thick, fleshy pods, and the pods as well as seeds can be eaten. Some thin-podded oriental types produce tender pods with only the pods used.

  • Shelling peas. Sometimes called English or garden peas, these varieties must be shelled and the seeds are eaten.
  • Sugar snap peas. These peas have fleshy, edible pods and are consumed when the seeds are developed and the pods are full. They have a very sweet flavor.
  • Snow peas. These edible-podded peas have thin, tender pods that are typically eaten when the seeds are still very small and immature.

Many varieties are good choices in Kansas, although early maturing varieties may be more consistent, especially in the southern half of the state. Varieties that are resistant to powdery mildew may also be a good choice.

For most gardeners, the two primary considerations are vine height and pod length. Some peas have shorter, dwarf vines that will not need any staking or trellising. Others have much taller vines — as tall as 5 feet — and will need a trellis for best production.

Pod length typically has a direct impact on yield, with longer pods having more seeds. Larger podded snow and snap peas also will often yield more per plant. However, gardeners may find that they prefer the flavor and tenderness of smaller podded varieties.

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