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Growing Organic Sugar Snap Peas in the Vegetable Garden

Sugar snap peas thrive in cool weather and are best sown directly into the garden soil. Plant them outdoors when nighttime temperatures are in the low 40s, or about 4-6 weeks before the last frost of spring. Begin by soaking the seeds overnight to soften their outer coating. Plant the seeds 1 inch deep and 4-6 inches apart in rows spaced 18-24 inches apart. Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Peas prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates.

While peas can germinate in temperatures as low as 40 F, optimal germination occurs around 75 F. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during this period. As the plants grow, provide support with trellises or stakes, as sugar snap peas are climbing vines that can reach heights up to 6 feet.

Regular watering is crucial, especially during the flowering and pod development stages. Use an organic, balanced fertilizer. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Monitor for pests such as aphids and employ organic pest control methods if necessary.

Harvesting Organic Sugar Snap Peas

The pods are ready to pick when they are plump, bright green, and still glossy. To harvest, gently hold the vine with one hand and use the other to snap off the pods to avoid damaging the plant. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more pods, extending the harvest period. It's best to pick peas in the morning when they are crisp and full of moisture.

About Organic Sugar Snap Pea Garden Seeds

As legumes, Snap Peas fix nitrogen in the soil, enhancing fertility for neighboring plants. They pair well with carrots, radishes, lettuce, and spinach, which can benefit from the shade the pea vines provide.

This variety combines the best traits of garden and snow peas, offering a juicy, crunchy texture, perfect for fresh eating or cooking. Its introduction revolutionized pea consumption

They are also loved for their ornamental value. The classic pea blooms are delicately beautiful and add vertical interest to a space as they climb up the trellis.

The thick, round, meaty pods measure 2-3 inches long. Perfect for freezing, not ideal for canning.

The sugar snap pea won the All-American Selections Award for best edible vegetable in 1979 for its easygoing habit and delicious taste.

Stories From Our Gardeners

"Sugar Snap Peas are one of the first vegetables that I fell in love with. I remember my mom showing them to me and explaining why they are called ‘snap’ peas. She would break the pea pod near my ear so I could clearly hear the ‘POP!’ sound. Then I would gobble them up!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer