Discover the versatility and beauty of Purple Mist Organic Peas from West Coast Seeds. This 15g pack produces a productive Dutch heirloom pea that offers multiple uses throughout its growth stages. Enjoy the young pods as tender snow peas, let them develop their striking purple color for mid-season shelling peas, or shell and dry the mature peas for winter soups. The 1.5-2m (5-6') tall vines are perfect for trellising and add ornamental value to your garden.
Key Features:
- Bright Purple Pods: Unique and attractive, 13cm (5") long.
- Multi-Purpose: Use as snow peas, shelling peas, or dried peas for soups.
- Compact Growth: 1.5-2m (5-6') tall vines, ideal for trellising.
- Open-Pollinated Seeds: Reliable and easy to grow.
- Matures in 80-85 Days: Quick and versatile harvest.
Growing Instructions:
- Difficulty: Easy
- Timing: Plant as early in spring as the soil can be worked. Optimal soil temperature: 10-20°C (50-70°F). Seeds should sprout in 7-14 days.
- Starting: Sow seeds 2cm (1") deep. After April 15th, sow seeds 5cm (2") deep. Space seeds 2-7cm (1-3") apart in rows. Do not thin.
- Growing Conditions: Use well-drained soil amended with finished compost. Add 2 cups of rock phosphate or bonemeal per 3m (10') row. Support plants with a trellis or fence as they climb.
Harvesting:
Pick pods at the desired stage. Multiple sowings or growing several varieties can extend the harvest season.
Tips for Blanching Peas:
To freeze peas for fall and winter use, blanching is essential. Submerge peas in boiling water briefly to kill enzymes, then cool in ice water before drying and freezing.
- Snap and Snow Peas: Boil whole pods for two minutes, then cool in ice water.
- Shelled Peas: Boil for ninety seconds, then cool in ice water. Dry thoroughly before storing in zip-top or vacuum bags.
Companion Planting:
Excellent companions include beans, carrots, celery, corn, cucumber, eggplant, parsley, peppers, potatoes, radish, spinach, strawberries, and turnips. Avoid planting near onions.
Enhance your garden with the striking and versatile Purple Mist Organic Peas. Perfect for gardeners of all levels, these peas offer both ornamental beauty and delicious, multi-purpose harvests.