Pisum sativum
Pisum sativum
pea
●
Common Names
peagarden peagreen pea
Context
nativeRegion
Eastern Mediterranean and Western Asia.
usdaZones
2–11 (grown as cool-season annual).
companionPlants
Carrots, Radishes, Turnips, Corn, Cucumbers
culturalUses
Widely used as a food crop for its seeds (green peas), edible pods, and shoots; also valuable for soil nitrogen fixation.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun is ideal for best growth and pod production.
WateringKeep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, particularly when pods are forming.
SoilPrefers well-draining, loamy soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.0–7.5).
FertilizerGenerally does not need much fertilizer; use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer if soil is poor.
HumidityTolerates a range of humidity, but does best in moderate humidity.
TemperatureGrows best in cool weather, with ideal temps between 10–18°C (50–65°F).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitAnnual, herbaceous climber or bush.
Mature SizeTypically 45–120 cm (18–48 in) tall, depending on variety.
Growth RateFast-growing; germinates in 7–10 days and matures in about 60–70 days.
BloomingWhite or purple flowers; blooms in spring or early summer.
DormancyDies after pod production; not perennial.
Propagation
MethodsSeed
DifficultyVery easy
Best SeasonEarly spring for temperate climates; late summer for autumn harvest.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningMinimal; pinch tips to encourage bushiness or harvest shoots.
RepottingNot typically required; best sown directly outdoors.
Pests & DiseasesAphids, powdery mildew, root rot, pea weevils; resistant to many diseases if rotated.
ToxicityNon-toxic; peas and shoots are edible but avoid eating dried mature seeds in large quantities due to lectins.
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