Pea, 'Blauwschokker'

Germination

Peas prefer an open weed free site in full sun with moist fertile well-drained soil. Dig in plenty of compost about 2 weeks prior to sowing. Can be sown directly once the soil reaches 10°C. Using cloches will help the earliest crops to germinate. Create a wide flat bottomed trench 50mm deep and 15cm wide. Water the length of the trench. Direct sow at 5cm spacing. You can sow 2 parallel rows into each trench. Allow 75cm between each trench. Cover the seed with soil. Protect from birds with netting. The netting can be removed after germination. Germination takes 7-10 days but may take up to 35 days. Successional sow every 2-3 weeks.

Growing

Will require a support on which to climb, pea netting and bamboo canes are ideal. Water well when flowering begins and for 2 weeks after. Mulch can be added as the base of plant to retain moisture. Protect from birds and pea moth damage with fine netting if needed.

Cultivation

Harvest regularly to encourage further pod production. Harvest from the bottom of the plant up. Peas best eaten immediately after picking, otherwise freeze as soon as possible after picking.