Why grow peas?

In Winter when the Summer veg have all finished, there is nothing better than fresh peas. Children love them and they are so versatile, being used in salads, stir-fries, soups, fritters, curries and just as they are. They also produce over a long period. 

How we grow peas

In our climate, we seed peas directly where they are to grow anytime from April-early July. It is too humid in March, or after mid-July, to seed them with much success. We sow 2 seeds per hole to ensure good germination, and protect them from snails and slugs whilst they are small with copper-based snail pellets. Seeded 10cm apart, with a strong trellis on which to grow, our peas also require some tying to the trellis. This is due to strong Winter winds which can pull a trellis of peas down overnight. We use rope which is strong enough to hold the weight of the peas, but can also be used for years without needing to be replaced. 

Types of peas

We sow shelling peas first as these are our favourite, but also snap peas, snow peas and even sweet peas for their flowers. Snap and snow peas can be affected by frost, but shelling peas are a great option for frost-prone areas as if their pods get damaged it doesn't affect the peas inside. So sow some peas, protect them from marauding cockatoos and corellas who love to eat their pods, and have some fun in the veggie patch this Winter. 

Still to come

Next time I will talk about growing beetroot. 

This week's recipe links

Caramelised Leek Pasta from Justine Snacks. 

Chinese Noodle Soup from Recipe Tin Eats. 

Healthy Pumpkin Bars from Yummy Toddler Food. 

One Pot Rainbow Chard with Beans from She Loves Biscotti. 

More info

To read more about what's happening on our local organic farm this week as we grow and care for veggies for our box delivery, check out this week's newsletter here.