OREGON SUGAR POD II PEA

Though no one really knows when peas were first cultivated, historians can be certain that people grew them for food by the Bronze Age. Legend has it that fresh peas first became popular when a French gardener introduced them to the court of Louis XIV. Because they could be dried and stored for long periods of time, people in colonial times also valued this vegetable. Horticulturalists and gardeners alike have continued cultivating peas of all varieties and sizes. Oregon Sugar Pod was developed by Dr. James Baggett of Oregon State University.

Sowing: Because peas thrive in cool weather and do not transplant well, they should be planted outside 4-6 weeks before the last frost or when the average soil temperature reaches at least 40 degrees F. If planting later, remember that most peas won’t tolerate weather above 75 degrees F. If planting peas in your soil for the first time, keep in mind that a powder inoculant of beneficial bacteria should coat the seeds. Plant the peas 2″ apart and 2″ deep in light soil and full sun. For an early spring crop, plant in the same manner in the fall. Peas do not do well when planted near onions or garlic.

Growing: Before they bloom, pea plants need to be kept moist but not wet; after blooming, slightly increase the watering. Remove weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the plants; mulch may be helpful to conserve moisture and control weeds. Oregon Sugar Pod vines are compact and do not require a trellis.

Harvesting: Snow peas taste best when harvested as soon as they reach their mature length, but before the peas inside have fully developed; check the pods often for the best result.

Seed Saving: To save seed from garden peas, let the pods mature fully on the vine; they will turn brown, and the peas should rattle inside when they have dried completely. Pick them individually, or pull the entire plant and hang it upside down in a warm, dry location to finish drying. Shell the peas after 1-2 weeks of drying. Store Oregon Sugar Pod II pea seeds in a cool, dry place for up to three years.

Latin Name: Pisum sativum

Type: Open Pollinated, Cool Season|Warm Season

USDA Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

Seeds per Ounce: 90

Planting Method: Direct Sow

Sunlight: Full Sun

Height: 36 Inches

Color: Green