06/04/2022
Eeek, my peas are flowering, which means soon we will be devouring delicious fresh peas!! I planted 100ft of peas around the perimeter of our main garden bed, as well as another 20ft or so in a raised bed. They are one of my favorite things to grow for a number of reasons; I love that they fix nitrogen thanks to rhizobia, a bacteria, that forms a symbiotic relationship with the nodules on the pea’s roots (this is true of all legumes). The rhizobia utilize carbohydrates from the plant and in return, chemically convert atmospheric nitrogen gas found in the soil to nitrogen the peas can use. Not only does this benefit the peas, it also benefits the following crop. As the nodules decompose, they add even more usable nitrogen to the soil. Rhizobia is naturally found in the soil, but often not in the quantity needed to properly fix nitrogen. Inoculating your pea, bean, and legume seeds with purchased rhizobia is the best way to ensure your plants and soil will get maximum benefits!
Aside from being ridiculously delicious, another thing I love about peas is how well they freeze. Frozen peas are a staple I like to have year round, and thanks to their upward, vining growth, it’s possible to grow a lot of peas in a small space! I’m growing 4 varieties this year: Super Sugar Snap, Little Marvel, Lillian Caseload, & Kelvedon Wonder. Peas are, for the most part, self-pollinating, which means I’ll be able to save seeds despite growing numerous varieties. What’s your favorite pea variety? Are your peas flowering yet? (Zone 5b here). Let’s talk peas!