Peas, glorious peas!
Versatile little vegetables that have a flavour that complements just about anything. Whip up a batch of mushy peas, a perfect accompaniment to classic fish 'n' chips, or enjoy them straight out of the pod as a satisfying snack. Peas are a simple pleasure that adds a touch of goodness to any meal.
What peas should I grow?
So before we get into how to grow your very own peas to enjoy them regularly, lets explore the different types. Each type has a unique characteristics and uses, so we have highlighted some common types of peas that you can grow:
Garden Peas (Pisum sativum): Garden peas, also known as English peas or sweet peas, are the classic pea variety. They have a slightly sweet flavor and are typically shelled before eating. Garden peas are often used in stir-fries, soups, stews, and as a side dish.
Garden Peas (Pisum sativum): Garden peas, also known as English peas or sweet peas, are the classic pea variety. They have a slightly sweet flavor and are typically shelled before eating. Garden peas are often used in soups, stews, and as a side dish.
Snow Peas (Pisum sativum var. saccharatum): Snow peas are flat but also has an edible, small pod with undeveloped peas inside. They are crisp and tender, with a slightly sweet and delicate flavor. Snow peas are commonly used in many Asian cuisines such as stir fry!
Sugar Snap Peas (Pisum sativum var. macrocarpon): Sugar snap peas are a cross between garden peas and snow peas they contain fully developed peas inside. They can be eaten raw or cooked, and are popular as a snack.
Split Peas: Split peas are made by splitting and drying mature peas, typically from garden peas or yellow peas. They come in two varieties: green and yellow. Split peas are used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and dals (Indian lentil dishes).
So why peas, what makes them so good!
Lots of nutrients: Peas are packed with essential nutrients such as vitamins (vitamin K, vitamin C, folate, and B vitamins), minerals (iron, manganese, and potassium), and dietary fiber. These nutrients are known for maintaining and promoting health.
Fiber and Protein Peas are a good source of fiber and protein. Fiber in particular actually aids digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
And did you know...?
Peas are known as a sustainable crop, they have the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. They also require less water compared to many other crops, making them environmentally friendly.
Let's grow peas!
Timing is key: Peas are cool-season crops and prefer cooler temperatures. Depending on your climate, plant them in early spring (as soon as the soil can be worked) or in late summer for a fall crop.
Peas thrive in well-draining soil: Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter. Amend your soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
Plant in a sunny area (but not direct sunlight): Choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Peas can tolerate some shade but will produce better in full sun.
Let's sow: Sow pea seeds directly into the ground, about 1 to 2 inches deep. Space the seeds 1 to 2 inches apart in rows, leaving about 2 to 3 feet between rows. If you're growing tall varieties, provide support such as trellises or stakes for them to climb.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overhead watering, as peas are prone to fungal diseases. Water at the base of the plants to keep the foliage dry.
Support your peas: As your pea plants grow, provide support for them to climb. This can be done using trellises, stakes, or even a pea-specific support structure. Regularly tie the vines to the supports as they grow.
Maintenance: Regularly remove weeds that compete with the pea plants for nutrients and water. Monitor for pests such as aphids or pea weevils, and take appropriate measures if necessary.
Get ready to harvest : Peas are ready to be harvested when the pods are plump and the peas inside have reached a desirable size. Harvest regularly to promote continuous production. Snap or cut the pods from the vines, and be careful not to damage the plants.
Cooking time!
For the best flavor and texture, it's ideal to use freshly picked peas, as they can quickly toughen and lose their natural sweetness.
Raw green peas make a wonderful and nutritious snack, and they can also be a tasty to add to your salads. Additionally, peas can be added to various cooked dishes such as pasta, soup, casserole, stir-fry, and sautés.
The cooking time needed for peas can vary significantly depending on their stage of harvest. Young and small peas require less cooking compared to older, more starchy ones. Adjust your cooking time accordingly to achieve the desired tenderness.
Remember, whether enjoyed raw or cooked, peas offer a burst of freshness and flavor that can enhance a wide range of culinary creations.
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