Lathyrus King Dew. the 7th 1903

rowing Sweet Peas (Lathyrus odoratus):

1. Planting Time:

• Plant sweet pea seeds in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. You can also start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost and transplant them outdoors.

2. Sunlight:

• Sweet peas prefer full sun, but they can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates.

3. Soil Preparation:

• Choose well-draining soil with good fertility. Add organic matter like compost to improve soil structure and fertility.
• Aim for a slightly alkaline to neutral soil pH (around 7.0).

4. Planting:

• Plant sweet pea seeds about 1 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart. If you're starting indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors once they are sturdy and the danger of frost has passed.
• Provide support such as a trellis or netting for the sweet peas to climb. They are climbing vines and need something to support their growth.

5. Watering:

• Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to diseases.

6. Fertilizing:

• Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer when planting and apply a blooming fertilizer once the plants start to flower.

7. Pruning:

• Pinch off the tips of the plants when they are about 6 inches tall to encourage branching. This results in more flowers.
• Remove spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming.

8. Deadheading:

• Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming and prevent seed formation.

9. Mulching:

• Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain a cooler root environment.

10. Pests and Diseases:

• Keep an eye out for pests like aphids and spider mites. Treat any infestations promptly.
• Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

11. Winter Care:

• Sweet peas are typically grown as annuals, but they may self-seed in some areas. Collect seeds if you want to save them for the next year.