Sugar Snap Pea Seeds - Pisum sativum

2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

USDA Zones 2-11 - Grows as a cool-season annual in all zones. Sugar snap peas are a hardy vegetable that can tolerate light frosts but will stop producing in hot weather.

Best performance in Zones 3-9, where they can be grown in the spring and fall.

Northern Zones (2-5) - Plant seeds outdoors as soon as the soil is workable in early spring. Can tolerate a light frost. For an earlier start, you can plant indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost.

Hot Climate Zones (9-11) - Best grown in late fall, winter, and early spring. Avoid planting during the summer as the high temperatures will cause the plants to stop producing and eventually die.

Soil Temperature - Requires a cool soil for germination, with an optimal temperature range of 45-75F. Germination is poor in hot soils.

Growing Season - Requires 60-70 days to maturity, making it an excellent crop for succession planting and extending the harvest.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

When to Plant:
Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring as soon as the soil is workable, about 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date. For a continuous harvest, plant a new batch of seeds every 2-3 weeks. For a fall crop, sow seeds in late summer, about 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost.

Location and Soil:
Choose a location that receives full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day). Peas prefer rich, well-draining soil with a neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers before planting, as peas are nitrogen fixers.

Sowing Seeds:

Prepare a garden bed by loosening the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and mixing in compost.

Erect a trellis, fence, or other support structure before planting, as these plants are vining and need something to climb.

Sow seeds 1 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart along the base of the support.

Lightly cover the seeds with soil and water thoroughly.

Keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings emerge, which typically takes 7-14 days.

Care and Maintenance:

Watering: Provide consistent and even moisture, especially once the plants begin to flower and set pods.

Fertilizing: Peas generally don't need fertilizer. If your soil is very poor, a low-nitrogen fertilizer can be applied at planting.

Harvesting: Harvest pods when they are full-sized, plump, and crisp. Snap peas are best when they are still tender and sweet, so harvest frequently. The more you pick, the more the plant will produce.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for common pests like aphids and powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.