Sweet Peas
Lathyrus odoratus
The heady fragrance of sweet peas is unforgettable! Sweet peas are a hummingbird and butterfly favorite. Flowers bloom in various colors (except yellow) including red, mauve, peach, lilac, white, pink, and scarlet. Pea-like blooms in elongated clusters appear on winged stems. All parts of this plant are poisonous. Use with caution around children and pets. Do not plant near edible peas (Pisum sativum).
How to Grow Sweet Peas
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Pests
Diseases
Beneficial Critters
Growing from Seed
Transplanting is recommended. Sow seeds in a deep cell container. Darkness is needed for germination. Pre-soaking seeds for 24 hrs will aid germination.
Planting Considerations
Sweet peas like afternoon shade and prefer a cool climate. They like consistently moist, rich, organic and well-draining soil. Sweet peas should be grown up a trellis or another structure that they can climb.
Harvesting
Pick when half the flowers on a stem are open. Vines are an attractive filler to bouquets.
Pruning
Pinch seedlings when they are 6-8" (15-20 cm) tall.
