Snow Pea Mammoth Melting

Choosing the Right Variety

Peas are divided into two main types: bush peas and climbing peas.

Bush Peas:

• Compact plants that grow to about 1 m tall.
• Do not require trellising.
• Will benefits from light support from 1 m stakes
• Ideal for small gardens or containers.
• Lower yield per plant but easier to manage.
•  Harvest period: Shorter harvest window.

Climbing Peas:

• Vining plants that can grow up to 2 metres tall.
• Require trellising or a support structure.
• Produce higher yields over a longer period.
• Extended harvest window.

 Climate

• Peas thrive in cool to mild climates and are best grown in autumn, winter, and early spring in most parts of Australia.

Soil Preparation

PH:

• Peas prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.

Soil type:

• Loamy soil is ideal, but peas can grow in most soil types if well drained.

 Amendments:

• Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.

Drainage:

• Ensure the soil is not waterlogged, as peas are prone to root rot.

Planting

 Seed spacing:

• Sow seeds 20 cm apart and 1 cm deep.

 Row spacing:

• Leave 20 cm between rows.

 Support:

• Install trellises, stakes, or netting at planting time to avoid disturbing roots later.

Watering

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall.
• Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

Fertilising

• Peas are light feeders and can fix their own nitrogen with the help of rhizobia bacteria in the soil.
• If needed, apply a balanced fertiliser at planting time.
• Avoid high nitrogen fertilisers, as they promote leafy growth at the expense of pods.

Pest and Disease Management

 Common Pests

 Aphids:

• Spray with a mild soap solution or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs.

 Pea moths:

• Use row covers to protect plants.

 Snails and slugs:

• Handpick or use organic baits.

 Common Diseases

 Powdery mildew:

• Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

 Fusarium wilt:

• Rotate crops and avoid planting peas in the same spot for 3-4 years.

Harvesting

Snow peas:

Harvest when pods are flat, and seeds are just beginning to form.

Sugar snap peas:

• Harvest when pods are plump but still tender.

Shelling peas:

• Harvest when pods are fully rounded but before they become tough.

 Regular harvesting encourages more production.

Companion Planting

 Good Companions

Carrots:

• Peas provide shade for carrots, which prefer cooler soil.

Radishes:

• Help deter aphids and other pests.

Corn:

• Acts as a natural trellis for climbing peas.

Lettuce:

• Benefits from the nitrogen fixed by peas.

Cucumbers:

• Grow well alongside peas and share similar soil requirements.

 Plants to Avoid

Onions and garlic:

• Can inhibit pea growth.

Potatoes:

• Compete for nutrients and may increase the risk of disease.

 Tips for Success

• Rotate crops annually to prevent soilborne diseases.
• Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Pick peas regularly to encourage continuous production.