Dwarf Grey Sugar Snow Pea Seeds
Dwarf Grey Sugar Snow Pea Seeds
The Dwarf Gray Sugar Pea lives true to its name, boasting sweet, stringless pods measuring approximately 8-10.2 centimeters. Its prolific vines, spanning approximately 61-76.2 centimeters, typically don't need staking. Additionally, its bicolored flowers - purple and pinkish-white - add an ornamental touch to any vegetable garden.
This pea variety thrives in cool, moist conditions. You can sow the seeds directly in rich garden loam or in a container 4-8 weeks before the final spring frost. Each packet contains approximately 15-20 seeds.
Dwarf Grey Sugar snow pea seeds yield the earliest and most compact edible pods. The bushy vines, reaching approximately 150 centimeters tall, benefit from staking. Following charming sweet pea-like flowers, clusters of flat, fleshy, curved, semi-pointed pods emerge. These light green pods, averaging approximately 6-8 centimeters, are conveniently positioned at the tops of the plants for easy harvesting. This heirloom variety, formerly known as Dwarf Gray Sugar Cabbage Pea, has been cultivated since before 1773. It was first commercially sold in 1892 by D.M Ferry and Company. This pea variety is particularly well-suited for growing pea shoots and tips.
Share
How To Grow
How To Grow
Sowing: Soaking seeds is not advised for damp soils. Sow seed 2 centimeters deep. After April 15th, sow seed 5 centimeters deep. Space seeds 2-7 centimeters apart in the row. Do not thin. If the seeds fail to sprout, try to dig some up and check for rot or insect damage. The challenge with untreated pea seeds is to give them an early start but to avoid rot.
Growing: Use well-drained soil amended with finished compost. Add 2 cups of rock phosphate or bonemeal for every 300 centimeters of row. Plant most varieties along a trellis or fence for support as they climb. Dwarf varieties do not need a trellis, but may benefit from the support of some twigs poked into the soil in the row.
Harvesting
Harvesting
Choose the time to harvest when the pods reach the desired stage. In principle, all peas can be picked before the seeds fully mature, initially as snow peas, then as tender snap peas, and finally as shelling peas. However, most varieties have a specific optimal maturity for harvesting. To prolong the harvest season, consider making multiple sowings or growing several different varieties.
Seed Saving
Seed Saving
The Dwarf Grey Sugar Snow Pea follows a life cycle typical of legumes, being an annual plant with self-pollinating perfect flowers. While cross-pollination is rare, it's advisable to maintain a distance of at least 607 centimeters between different varieties. To promote optimal pod development, it's best to provide minimal watering and refrain from fertilizing the seed plants or harvesting them for consumption. When the season ends, harvest the pods once they have become crisp and turned brown. For bush-type varieties, you can uproot the entire bush and hang it upside down to dry. Allow the seeds to remain in the pods until they are thoroughly dry, then crush the pods to release the seeds and remove the chaff by winnowing.
Extra Facts
Extra Facts
Planting Methods: Indoor, Outdoor
Blooming Season: Late Spring to Early Summer
Planting Season: Early Spring
Latin Name/USDA Zones: Pisum sativum var.
saccharatum/ Dwarf Grey Sugar Snow Peas, being annuals, aren't designated with USDA zones meant for perennials. Peas generally prefer cooler climates. In milder winters, overwintering might lead to flowering in the next season. While not USDA zone-specific, gardeners should consider local climates and plant based on specific annual pea needs. Focus on regional conditions and expert guidance for Dwarf Grey Sugar Snow Peas, ensuring optimal cultivation in diverse environments.
Sunlight Required/ Height: Full Sun/ 30 cm
Can I Grow Pea Seeds Sprouts?: Yes, you can grow Dwarf Grey Sugar Snow Pea sprouts. Soak the seeds overnight, then plant them in a tray with well-draining soil. Keep them moist, and once sprouted, harvest tender shoots for salads or garnishes. Enjoy these fresh, crisp sprouts in various culinary creations.
Seed Type: Heirloom, GMO-Free
Soil Type: Loamy or Sandy Soil