How do you grow peas for beginners?

Growing peas. Peas are a great place to begin in the garden. These cool-weather crops respond well to a little tender loving care. All you need is well-draining soil and an early planting. A light frost doesn't bother them, making them the perfect crop for the spring garden. I always recommend them to beginning gardeners, as they will show results in a matter of days.

Choose types suited to your climate and the space you want to devote to them; dwarf varieties do well in containers, while taller ones require ample, strong supports. I like snap peas, where the entire pod is edible; the fresh-from-the-vine sweet crunch is delightful. Starting with disease-resistant varieties will increase the chances of success.

Keep track of soil moisture. Peas prefer a damp soil, not a wet one. Use your fingers to check if the topsoil is dry. Water in the early morning to avoid fungal problems. I installed inexpensive, simple drip systems to maintain soil levels at a reasonably constant level. Water properly to prevent blossom drop, and you'll have increased crops.

Harvest when pods feel plump and bright green. Using scissors to nip off pods will avoid bruising plants. Be sure to pick back sprouting tendrils to encourage further pods. I pick in mid to late morning, to have them sweet and crisp. Refrigerate immediately until used. Carrots and peas are about the only vegetables I don't mind blanching and freezing for winter use.

Address issues quickly. Yellowing leaves? Overwatering. Weak growth? Not enough sunshine. Shrivelled pods? Nutrient imbalance. I keep a gardening notebook. Write when you plant and how they're behaving. You'll improve next season.

Read the full article: How to Grow Peas: A Complete Guide