Peas

Did you now that cold cooked peas are great in salads? If you add them to potato salad along with diced carrots, you have made Russian Potato Salad!!

Did you know you should harvest shelling peas as soon as the peas are of good size? Allowing the actual pea to maximize size creates an environment where sugar decreases and starch increases in the pea.

Did you know that peas used to be very difficult for the home gardener to grow? The introduction of edible pod varieties has made home-gardening of peas pretty much a staple! All you need is cool weather and a trellis.

Did you know that there is a difference between shelling-type peas and edible pod type peas? Edible pods are a fairly recent development – pick the young pods before the peas fully develop.

Did you know that the commercial pea harvest is almost fully complete by the end of June? Ideal growing conditions for peas is temps between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Plant peas early – as soon as the soil can be worked and about four weeks before the last frost.

Did you know that peas are an excellent crop for elevated garden? Well drained soil is critical for pea success. To use a trellis in an elevated garden (and still keep plants harvestable) consider angling your trellis down or across.

Did you know that finding a pea pod with nine or more peas is so unusual, it is a custom to make a wish if you find one?

Did you know that finding a pea pod with nine or more peas is so unusual, it is a custom to make a wish if you find one?

Did you know that freezing peas for longer periods decreases the overall flavor? Edible pods hold their flavor better during the freezing process.