Planting and Growing Guide for Chinese peas (Pisum sativum var. macrocarpon)
Description
Chinese Peas also known as Snow Peas, are varieties of peas with soft pods that area eaten whole when the peas are green and soft. There are many varieties. Snow peas are mostly eaten for their large flat pods when the seeds are very small. Snow peas are best grown in the cooler months. Snow peas need some form of support when growing, either frames, wire or trellises. Choose a sunny position away from strong winds but with good ventilation. Can be grown in large pots with wire cylinders or stakes as support.
Chinese Peas can be grown on a wide range of soils, but good structure, fertility and drainage is essential for vigorous growth. The preferred pH range is 6.0 to 7.0. Lime needs to be added to acidic soils.
Chinese peas do best in cool and moist growing conditions. The crop is sensitive to heat. Temperatures above 30 degrees C (85 degrees F) leads to poor pollination, reduced yields and early maturity problems. The ideal average daily temperatures for growing Chinese peas 15-18 degrees C (60-65 degrees F) with a maximum of 24 degrees C (75 degrees F) and minimum 7 degrees C (45 degrees F. Stems and foliage are seldom affected by frost, but flowers are made sterile by frost and pods can be damaged causing white mottled skin. Choose a planting date to avoid frost from the flowering stage onwards.Pick the pods early before the pods toughen. Continuously harvest to encourage new pods. Both the whole pods and shoots can be eaten raw in salads whole. They can also be steamed, briefly boiled, used in 'stir-fry' and Asian dishes.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Sow seed 2 cm (3/4 inch) deep in seed trays. Plant out after 4-6 weeks when frosts are unlikely to affect the flowers or young pods. Seed can easily be grown directly into the garden after the last frosts. Seeds germinate in 7-14 days, depending on the variety.
Space between plants: Space plants about 8-10 cm (3-4 inches) apart. Allow 60 to 70 cm (18 to 24 inches) between rows. Most varieties require support
Harvest Time: Harvest in about 25-35 days.
Hints:
- Does best in full sun
- Feed regularly with fertiliser or well-rotted compost as plants grow
- Does best in rich, well-drained soil with neutral to slightly acid pH
- Keep the soil around the plants covered in a thick layer of mulch, and water regularly. Feed regularly during the growing season
- Does not cope with hot weather and so grow in milder months
- Plant seed in batches under support every few weeks to get a continuous supply
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!