Pisum sativum Peas

Planting position: Full sun. Spacing of 5cm between plants and 50cm between rows.
Requires regular watering (less during germination period). Well-draining, compost-enriched loamy soil and layers of grass clippings mulching. Added 2:3:2 to preparing beds, at a rate of 65g.m ², in furrows next to the seed furrow and apply additional 2:3:2 during flowering period. Provide bird protection by means of wire netting and provide 5cm tall seedling support by drawing soil up to one side of the row. Support tall-growing peas with a trellis or other support.
Propagate from seed.
Harvesting is done from 3months after transplanting, when the pods are well filled and plump. Pull pods downwards, while one hand secures the stem.
Pests, diseases and their cures: damage by birds - provide cover. Downy mildew and leaf- or pod spot - spray the leaves with mancozeb. American bollworm - spray with cypermethrin. Root rot - remove and burn infected plants. Red spider mite - spray with dicofol.

The annual garden pea has pale green foliage, white flowers and climb with tendrils. This most nutritious vegetable is eaten in salads, soups, stews and many other dishes.