Peas
Peas
August 29, 2024
Introduction
Even in New York City, you can grow peas right in your own backyard (or rooftop, or fire escape, or wherever you can find a spare inch of soil). Peas love NYC’s cooler weather so growing peas will give you something to do when your seasonal affective disorder starts to kick in. With a little bit of know-how and this grow guide, you can turn your little outdoor space into a pea-producing powerhouse.
The What
Peas, or Pisum sativum, are small, round seeds that grow inside pods. These cool-season vegetables are perfect for vertical gardening, which means they grow upward, saving space. Packed with vitamins A, C, K, fiber, and protein, peas are not only nutritious but also versatile in the kitchen. Whether you enjoy them fresh, cooked, or dried, peas add a sweet, crisp flavor to many dishes. For beginners, peas are easy to grow and thrive in containers, making them ideal for small urban gardens.
The Why
In NYC's Zone 7b, peas thrive in the cool temperatures of spring and fall. Their adaptability to container gardening makes them a great choice for balconies, rooftops, and terraces. Peas also enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen, a process that adds vital nutrients back into the soil, benefiting companion plants like arugula, lettuce, and radishes. Additionally, growing your own peas means having fresh, homegrown produce at your fingertips, reducing your reliance on grocery stores. Watching your garden flourish and harvesting your own food brings a sense of accomplishment and connection to nature.
Sunlight Requirements
Peas need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Indoors: Not suitable for indoor growing; best grown outdoors in pots or garden beds with trellis support.
Water Requirements
Keep soil consistently moist. Water regularly, especially in full sun conditions. Mulching helps retain moisture.
Temperature Tolerance
Peas are a cool weather crop and enjoy 45-75°F, ideally 60-65°F. Plant outdoors in March-May and August-September in NYC zone 7b. Cool weather supports tender pods.
Container Size
Indoors: Not ideal; Outdoors: 10-12" wide, 12" deep, 3-5 gallons
Best Soil Mix
Peas thrive in well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix with compost from kitchen scraps or well-rotted manure.
How to Add Fertilizer
Use balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer 5-10-10 every 4-6 weeks. Organic options: compost, fish emulsion, kelp meal. Regular, moderate fertilization supports healthy growth.
Growth Duration
Peas are ready for harvest 60-70 days after planting, or when the pods are plump and firm. Regular harvesting encourages more pods.
How To Trim
Minimal trimming is needed, but removing dead or damaged leaves helps keep the plant healthy and productive, ensuring sweet peas.
Growing Challenges
Wilting: Water regularly, avoid waterlogging. Pests (Aphids): Spray with soapy water or neem oil. Yellow Leaves: Ensure good drainage, moderate watering. Slow Growth: Use balanced fertilizer. Diseases (Downy Mildew): Improve air circulation, use fungicide.
Interesting Facts
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