The elegant flowers of garden sweet peas come in a wide, wonderful color range, from the softest pastels to rich, regal, deep hues. Most selections are tall vines that can reach a height of up to 8 feet in a single season. There are also a few short, nonclimbing, border-type plants that grow to just 2 to 3 feet high.
How tall should a trellis be for a sweet pea?
Except for the bush types, sweet peas are real climbers. Give them at least 6 feet of good support. Some varieties may climb to 9 or 10 feet. Other visually-pleasing supports are bamboo poles in a tee-pee style, a woven willow obelisk, or a trellis.
How tall do sweet peas get before they flower?
Sweet Pea Quick Reference Growing Chart
| Plant Type: | Annual, flowering vine | Flower Color: |
|---|---|---|
| Time to Maturity: | Plant in fall for spring growth | Soil Drainage: |
| Spacing: | 6 feet | Companion Planting: |
| Planting Depth: | 1/2-2 inches, check seed packets | Uses: |
| Height: | Varies | Attracts: |
How do you grow tall sweet peas?
Plant seedlings out around the last spring frost in two rows, one on each side of the trellis, roughly 8 inches (20 cm) apart down the row. As the vines explode into lush growth, it’s important to keep them tied to their trellises. Once the vines get going, sweet peas can grow more than a foot (30.5 cm) a week.
Why are my sweet peas not growing taller?
Peas are not difficult plants to grow, but they are particular about weather and soil conditions. If your peas have stunted growth or aren’t flowering, the problem could be as simple as hot temperatures or as complex as a nutrient deficiency.
Do sweet peas come back every year?
Sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus) only live for a year, dying after setting seed. But don’t let this put you off as they are super easy to grow from seed. Perennial species such as Lathyrus latifolius come back year after year, but mostly lack fragrance and there are fewer to choose from.
What to do with sweet peas when finished flowering?
Cut down your sweet peas when they finish flowering, but leave the roots in the ground as they have little nodules on them which will add nitrogen to your soil.
Do sweet peas need a trellis?
Because Sweet Peas are vining, they need support to grow up and flower. Many types of structures can work such as a trellis, supports with mesh or twine, or fences. They need a structure that is well anchored in the ground to support the weight of the vines.
Do sweet peas bloom all summer?
There are long-day, day-neutral, and short-day types. As the name implies, long-day sweet peas start producing flower buds when the days are longer than nights, and bloom between spring and summer, which is why they are often referred to as spring- or summer-flowering sweet peas.
Can sweet peas grow in pots?
Sweet Peas grow beautifully in pots and containers. All they need are great soil, sunshine, water and something to climb. Then sit back and wait for your beautifully scented sweet peas to grow and flourish.
Will sweet peas grow up a fence?
Sweet peas develop curly tendrils that allow them to climb up fences and trellises, creating a magical feel. They are easy to grow in many climates with adequate preparation for the growing season.
How much space do sweet peas need?
about 15cm apart
Put your support frame into position before you start planting. Turn each pot out and gently separate the plants. Place 2 or 3 seedlings in each hole for a nice, full display. Aim to plant each group about 15cm apart.
Can sweet peas be grown in hanging baskets?
Care Information. Patio sweet peas work well when grown in containers and hanging baskets without other plants to create a delightful and eyecatchihg display. Alternatively, they can be grown with other plants where they will wind their way up the stems to create spectacular effects.
Why are my sweet peas so short?
As side shoots develop they spread the energy, which may result in shorter stems and a smaller number of flowers. Having planted the sweet peas out in late April / May they will start flowering in late May / early June. We check the plants twice a week, continuing to remove side shoots and tendrils as they develop.
What to plant in front of sweet peas?
Small mound-forming annuals like sweet alyssum can be grown at the base of tall sweet peas.
What is the lifespan of a pea plant?
Peas are annual plants, with a life cycle of one year.
Are sweet peas invasive?
Annual or Perennial
In many areas of North America, the perennial sweet pea (L. latifolius) is an invasive problem, clogging open fields and roadsides. It looks pretty until you realize it’s crowding out other plants and acting like a thug.
Do sweet peas need sun or shade?
Make sure you plant the sweet peas outside after the last frost date in your area. Choose a spot in full sun or very light dappled shade with rich, well-drained soil.
What month do sweet peas flower?
Sweet peas are sown and grown from seed or bought as plug plants. If growing from seed, you can sow in autumn (typically October or November) or spring (February to April), and grow on the seedlings into small plants.
Will sweet pea survive winter?
Generally, though, sweet peas are classed as half hardy annuals and will be fine in dry frost up to -4°C (25°F). If temperatures do drop below that, you’ll need to protect them with horticultural fleece.
Should I cut pods off sweet peas?
Sweet peas are annuals, so they won’t regrow next year, or if you cut the plant back. Take off as many pods as you can, leaving any remaining buds and hope for the best. It may well be too late though.
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