Growing Split Peas With Care & Attention

Written by Lars Nyman on

September 19, 2024

Growing Split Peas

Split Peas are a member of the legume family, and have a mild, earthy flavor. They are revered for their high protein content and their ease of preparation - simply soak, then simmer in a pot of water until tender. Split Peas are commonly used in soups, stews, casseroles, and loaves, and their mild flavor mixes well with more robust flavors like garlic, onion, and herbs & spices.

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Cheatsheet: Growing Split Peas With Care & Attention

🌱 Choose the Right Soil

🏞️ Loamy soil with good drainage and pH 6-7 works best.

💧 Provide Adequate Water

💦 Keep soil moist, but not waterlogged, to ensure healthy growth.

☀️ Optimal Sun Exposure

🌞 Plant in a sunny spot to maximize yield and nourish the plants.

✂️ Pruning Tips

🔪 Regularly trim off yellow or dead leaves to promote better growth.

💪 Support Growing Plants

🌾 Stake or trellis plants to prevent bending and ensure proper support.

🌡️ Monitor Temperature

🌡️ Split peas flourish in cool temperatures between 60-70°F.

🌧️ Rain vs. Irrigation

💧 Consistent irrigation is preferable as heavy rain can lead to splitting.

🌼 Blooming & Pollination

🐝 Attract pollinators by planting flowers nearby to aid in successful pollination.

🍽️ Harvesting Time

✂️ Harvest when about 80% of pods are dry for maximum flavor and nutrition.

💡 Did You Know?

  • With 26g of protein per cooked cup, split peas are a nutritious choice.
  • Split peas are also rich in iron, fiber, and B-vitamins.
  • They are a great low-cost option for self-sufficient home gardening.

Growing Split Peas With Care & Attention

Growing split peas is like nurturing an old friend; they reward you with hearty, nutrient-rich harvests. These humble legumes are surprisingly easy to grow, yet they require a touch of care and attention to thrive.

Choosing the Right Variety

First things first, select a variety that suits your climate. I recommend Green Arrow for cooler areas or Sugar Sprint for warmer climates. Trust me, the right variety makes all the difference.

Preparing the Soil

Split peas thrive in loamy, well-draining soil. Before planting, amend your soil with compost. I usually mix in a bit of aged manure as well.

Well-prepared soil can increase your yield by up to 30%!

Planting Split Peas

Direct sowing is best for split peas. I’ve found that spacing them about 1 inch apart works wonders. Plant them 1-2 inches deep.

Early spring is the ideal time. They love cool weather and can tolerate a light frost.

Watering and Mulching

Watering is crucial, but overwatering can spell disaster. Aim for consistency. When I first started, I made the mistake of letting them dry out between waterings; they didn’t appreciate it.

Mulching helps retain moisture. I usually use straw, but grass clippings work well too.

Supporting Your Plants

Peas are natural climbers. Use a trellis or stakes. I once used an old bicycle frame, and it worked like a charm!

Giving them something to climb on not only supports the plants but also keeps them off the ground, reducing disease risk.

Pest and Disease Control

Aphids and powdery mildew can be problematic. A strong blast of water usually takes care of aphids. For mildew, I use a homemade baking soda spray.

Rotate your crops annually to keep pests and diseases at bay. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort.

Harvesting and Storage

Harvest when the pods are plump yet slightly dry. I’ve found that waiting until morning dew has dried off is best.

Shell them and let them dry further in a cool, dark place. They store beautifully in airtight containers.

Nutrition and Uses

Split peas are a powerhouse of nutrients. They are high in protein, fiber, and various vitamins.

I love using them in soups, stews, and even salads. They add a wonderful texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Growing split peas is a fulfilling endeavor. With the right care and attention, your efforts will be richly rewarded. Happy gardening!

FAQ

1. When is the best time to plant split peas?

The best time to plant split peas is in early spring when the soil has warmed up.

2. Do split peas require a lot of space to grow?

No, split peas do not require a lot of space. They can be grown in small gardens or containers.

3. How often should split peas be watered?

Split peas should be watered regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist.

4. Can split peas tolerate frost?

Yes, split peas can tolerate mild frost. However, it is best to protect them during colder spells.

5. Do split peas require support while growing?

Yes, split peas need support such as trellises or stakes to grow upright and prevent them from bending or breaking.

6. How long does it take for split peas to mature?

Split peas typically take 90 to 100 days to mature and be ready for harvest.

7. Can split peas be grown in pots indoors?

No, split peas are not suitable for indoor growing as they require abundant sunlight to thrive.

Split Peas are an easy, nutritious and affordable option for gardeners looking to grow their own food. They are packed with protein, complex carbohydrates, potassium, magnesium, and fiber. Split Peas are a hardy annual that can easily be grown in most regions and are an easy crop to harvest and store. Split Peas can also be used in a number of recipes, adding a unique and delicious flavor to meals.

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