Sweet Pea Seeds
Lathyrus odoratus
How to plant Sweet Pea seedsOne of America's favorite annuals, sweet peas give you bright, fragrant flowers magnificent for cutting. While all sweet peas prefer cool weather, Old Spice and Mammoth Mix show remarkable resistance to heat.
Climbing sweet peas are supported by trellises, nets, or strings. We enjoy sweet peas most when vines are rambling over shrubs, which creates an authentic cottage garden look.
Dwarf sweet peas do not climb and are perfect for containers, beds and borders. Flowers are frequently held on stems long enough cutting.
Climbing Sweet Peas
Dwarf Sweet Peas
How to Plant and Grow Sweet Pea
Plant Sweet Pea Seeds: Start seeds in winter or early spring, about 6 to 8 weeks before your last frost date. Prior to sowing, nick the outer seed coating with nail clippers or soak in water for 6 to 8 hours to allow for faster hydration and improved germination. Sow in 4 in. pots, using a seed starting mix, with 2 to 3 seeds per pot. Sow seeds ½ to 1 in. deep, keep out of direct sun. Once germination occurs, provide direct light. With soil temperature kept at 55 to 65°F, germination is in 7 to 21 days. Thin seedlings down to 1 per container about 1 week after germination. Transplant into the garden once soil can be worked and seedlings have 2 to 3 sets of leaves. In mild climates, seeds can be directly sown in fall. Plants grow best with 6 to 12 in. spacing.
Grow Sweet Peas: Full sun to part shade. Rich, moist, well-drained soil. Protect young seedlings from slugs, snails and birds. For fuller plants, pinch or cut back seedlings when there are 3 to 4 sets of leaves. To promote a longer bloom season, deadhead frequently.
