How to grow snow pea
Overview
Snow pea (Pisum sativum var. saccharatum) is a cool-season legume grown for its flat, tender edible pods and sometimes for shell peas. It is a productive crop that benefits from trellising and regular harvesting to encourage continuous pod production.
Varieties
- Oregon Sugar Pod II — A classic productive variety with sweet, stringless pods, widely grown in Australia.
- Snow Wind — A heat-tolerant variety bred for warmer climates, suitable for subtropical zones.
- Sweet Sienna — Produces attractive purple pods that turn green when cooked; unique colour with good flavour.
- Dwarf Grey Sugar — Compact heirloom variety ideal for small spaces or containers, producing abundant small pods.
Soil Preparation
Prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0–7.0. Incorporate well-rotted compost before planting. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged soils which can cause root rot.
Growing Guide
Sow seeds 2–3 cm deep, 5–10 cm apart in rows 45–60 cm apart in full sun. Provide a trellis or netting for vines to climb. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid high nitrogen fertiliser as peas fix their own nitrogen.
Sowing
Direct sow seeds 2–3 cm deep, 5–10 cm apart, in rows 45–60 cm apart. Germination takes 7–14 days. Soak seeds overnight before planting to speed germination, but do not soak longer as they can rot. Sow in situ as peas do not transplant well.
Care
Feed with a balanced organic fertiliser at planting and again when flowering begins. Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Once plants reach the top of the trellis, pinch out the growing tip to encourage pod fill. Remove spent plants promptly to reduce disease carryover.
Companion Planting
Good companions include carrots, celery, cucumbers, corn, beans, potatoes, radishes, spinach, and lettuce. Avoid planting near alliums (onions, garlic) and fennel, which can inhibit pea growth.
Common Pests & Risks
Aphids can be controlled with a strong water spray or insecticidal soap. Birds may eat young shoots or pods; use bird netting. Powdery mildew is common in humid conditions; ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Remove affected leaves promptly.
Harvesting
Harvest snow peas when pods are flat and still tender, before peas swell inside. Pick every 2–3 days to encourage continued production; use scissors or pinch stems carefully to avoid damaging vines.
In the Kitchen
Use raw in salads, stir-fries, or lightly steamed to retain crunch. Store in the refrigerator in a plastic bag for up to a week. Snow peas add sweetness and texture to many dishes.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: often from overwatering or poor drainage; reduce watering and improve soil. Brown edges on pods: heat stress or irregular watering; shade during hot spells and maintain even moisture. Powdery mildew: white coating on leaves; improve air circulation, apply sulfur or neem oil. Stunted growth: aphid infestation or nutrient imbalance; check for aphids and treat with soap spray. No pods: extreme temperatures during flowering; plant in season and ensure adequate pollination.