• Packet of Little Marvel Pea Seeds Paquet de graines de pois Little Marvel
  • Heirloom Little Marvel pea seeds Graines de pois Heirloom Little Marvel
  • Quality Little Marvel pea seeds Graines de pois Little Marvel de qualité
  • Little Marvel pea seeds for planting Graines de pois Little Marvel à planter
  • Little Marvel pea seeds for gardens Graines de pois Little Marvel pour jardins
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JNB Seed

Little Marvel Pea Seeds

Little Marvel Pea Seeds

$9.99 CAD
$9.99 CAD
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The Little Marvel, an esteemed heirloom pea variety, produces pods filled with peas that are both sweet and tender. To achieve the best flavor, it is advisable to harvest them while young. This variety is celebrated for its reliable production, offering an exceptional choice for fresh consumption, as well as for preserving through canning or freezing. Remarkably, it only requires about 62 days from planting to harvest readiness. Additionally, it shows resilience against Fusarium Wilt, a notable advantage for gardeners aiming for a healthy yield.

The cultivation of peas dates back to an era shrouded in mystery, but it is widely acknowledged that by the Bronze Age, these nutritious pods were already being grown for food. Peas gained prominence in Europe following their introduction to the court of Louis XIV by a French gardener, a move that marked the beginning of their popularity as a fresh vegetable. Their ability to be dried and stored for extended periods made them particularly valuable during colonial times, ensuring their staple status in the diet of many.

Over the centuries, the cultivation of peas has seen unwavering enthusiasm from both horticulturalists and amateur gardeners, with a myriad of varieties being developed to suit different tastes and growing conditions. Among these, the Little Marvel pea has secured a special place in the hearts of many since its introduction to the market in 1908. Its outstanding qualities were recognized in 1934 when it was awarded the prestigious AAS (All-America Selections) award, further cementing its legacy in the agricultural world.

Today, the Little Marvel continues to be a favored choice among gardeners and farmers alike, known for its sweet peas that enrich any meal whether eaten fresh or preserved. Its adaptability to various climates, coupled with its resistance to common diseases, makes it an enduring selection for those looking to cultivate a piece of history in their own backyards. As we continue to enjoy and share these delightful peas, we also honor the rich tapestry of agricultural innovation and tradition that has brought them to our tables.


    How To Grow

    Sowing peas is ideally done in the cool embrace of early spring or late winter, precisely 4-6 weeks prior to the last frost's farewell, or when the soil warmly welcomes a minimum average temperature of about 4 degrees Celsius. It's crucial to note that the hearty souls of heirloom pea varieties typically shy away from the embrace of climates warmer than 24 degrees Celsius. For those introducing peas to their garden for the first time, a dusting with a powder inoculant brimming with beneficial bacteria will ensure a healthy start. These seeds should be nestled into the soil, 5 centimeters deep and 5 centimeters apart, in a cradle of light soil and the full kiss of the sun. To support their growth, plant in double rows spaced 15-20 centimeters apart, leaving room for a trellis to guide their climb. For those eager to greet their green friends early in the year, a fall planting mirrors the spring ritual.

    As pea vines stretch towards the sky, a trellis standing 150-180 centimeters tall will serve as a sturdy backbone for their ascent. If left to their own devices, the vines will meander across the soil in search of sunlight. A delicate balance of moisture is crucial—keep the soil moist, yet shy of waterlogged, before the plants bloom, then welcome a bit more hydration as flowers begin to show. The presence of weeds threatens this harmony, so gentle removal is key, with mulch serving as both a guardian of moisture and a barrier against these unwelcome guests. The resilience of Little Marvel peas to fusarium wilt only adds to their charm.

    Harvesting

    Harvesting these peas at the moment when pods are plump yet shy of their maximum girth ensures the sweetest of rewards. Vigilance in removing older pods is essential, as their presence halts the birth of new ones, thus limiting the bounty the vines have to offer. The Little Marvel variety, in particular, is celebrated for its generous yield, promising an abundant harvest.

    Seed Saving

    For those wishing to carry the legacy of their garden into future seasons, seed saving is a craft of patience and care. Allow the pods to mature fully, transforming to a shade of brown that whispers of readiness, with peas inside that rattle like a secret waiting to be told. They may be plucked individually or with the vine in entirety, then hung in a place where warmth and dryness converge, to spend 1-2 weeks in the final throes of drying. Once the peas have shed their moisture, they are ready to be shelled and stored. A cool, dry haven will keep Little Marvel pea seeds viable for up to three years, ready to spring to life when the cycle begins anew.

    Extra Facts

    Planting Methods: Planting depth should be 5 centimeters with a spacing of 5 centimeters between seeds

    Blooming Season: Blooming typically occurs during the spring season

    Planting Season: Peas should be planted 4-6 weeks before the last frost or when the soil temperature reaches 4 degrees Celsius

    Latin Name/USDA Zones: Pisum sativum / USDA Zones: 3-11

    Sunlight Required/ Height: These seeds require full sunlight and can grow up to 60-90 centimeters tall

    Shelf Life After Test Date: Shelf life after the test date is typically 2-3 years

    Seed Type: Open-pollinated

    Soil Type: Suitable for loam, clay, or sandy soil

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