Sweet Pea Seeds - Knee-High Mix

Sweet Pea 'Knee-High Mix' is a charming variety of sweet peas that combines vibrant colors and delightful fragrance in a compact form. This mix is perfect for gardeners who want the beauty and fragrance of sweet peas but have limited space or prefer shorter vines. Ideal for containers, small gardens, or low trellises, 'Knee-High Mix' provides an excellent option for those looking to add color and scent without the need for tall supports. This mix includes various shades of pink, purple, red, and white flowers, ensuring a lively and colorful display.

Key Benefits

Compact Growth: With its shorter stature, 'Knee-High Mix' is perfect for smaller spaces such as containers, window boxes, or low trellises.
Fragrant Blooms: The mix produces sweet-scented flowers that are perfect for cutting and enjoying in vases or bouquets.
Vibrant Color Range: Includes a mix of vibrant colors, such as pink, purple, red, and white, offering a bright and cheerful display.
Long Bloom Period: This variety blooms from late spring to early summer, providing months of beautiful flowers.
Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees and butterflies, helping to support pollination in your garden.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: 'Knee-High Mix' produces a variety of flowers in different colors, including pink, purple, red, and white. The plants grow to a compact height, ideal for smaller garden spaces.
• Bloom Period: Blooms profusely from late spring to early summer, typically from May to July, depending on local climate conditions.
• Growth Habit: These are annual climbing plants with a shorter, bushier habit, perfect for low vertical support or even as ground covers.
• Size: Typically grows to 18–24 inches in height, with a spread of 12–18 inches.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• When to Plant: Start planting Sweet Pea 'Knee-High Mix' seeds in early spring, as soon as the soil is workable. Seeds can also be started indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost date and then transplanted outdoors.
• Ideal Temperature: Sweet Peas prefer cooler temperatures between 55°F–70°F (13°C–21°C), which makes them perfect for early spring planting.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1 inch deep in well-drained soil.
• Spacing: Space plants 6–8 inches apart to allow for air circulation and healthy growth.
• Soil Requirements: Sweet Peas thrive in well-draining, fertile, slightly alkaline soil (pH 7.0–7.5) rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Sweet Peas require full sun for at least 6 hours a day for the best flowering results. They can tolerate partial shade in hotter climates.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Water consistently to keep the soil moist, especially during dry spells. Sweet Peas need regular water but should not be waterlogged.
• Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Fertilization

• Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
• Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting time and again when plants are about 6 inches tall to encourage healthy growth and blooms.

Support and Pruning

• Provide light support, such as a low trellis, garden stake, or wire frame, to help the plants grow upright.
• Pinch back the tips of young plants to encourage branching and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Watch for aphids and slugs. Control pests organically using neem oil or insecticidal soap if needed.
• Diseases: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Rotate crops and practice good garden hygiene.

Harvesting

• Flowering: Sweet Pea flowers can be harvested when they are fully open. Cut flowers early in the day for the longest vase life, which typically lasts up to a week.
• Seed Harvest: If saving seeds, allow the pods to dry on the plant before harvesting. Store seeds in a cool, dry place for planting next season.

Storage

• Fresh Storage: Sweet Pea flowers can be stored in water for up to a week.
• Seed Storage: Store dried seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry location. Seeds can remain viable for up to 2 years.

Culinary and Practical Uses

• Ornamental: 'Knee-High Mix' is perfect for adding color and fragrance to small gardens, containers, or hanging baskets.
• Cut Flowers: The sweet, fragrant blooms make excellent cut flowers for bouquets or as a decorative addition to home décor.
• Companion Planting: Sweet Peas attract beneficial insects, which can help improve the health of nearby plants.

Conclusion

Sweet Pea 'Knee-High Mix' is the ideal choice for gardeners with limited space or those looking for a shorter, more compact version of traditional sweet peas. With its vibrant, fragrant flowers and easy care, it’s perfect for small garden beds, containers, or hanging baskets. Whether used as a decorative plant or cut flower, 'Knee-High Mix' will bring color, fragrance, and beauty to your garden from spring to summer.