Pea Seeds (Snow) - Dwarf Grey Sugar

Dwarf Grey Sugar peas are a unique snow pea variety, known for their tender, edible pods that offer a delightful crunch and mild sweetness. This compact variety is perfect for gardeners with limited space, as it grows in a dwarf form while still producing abundant, flavorful pods. Dwarf Grey Sugar peas are a perfect addition to stir-fries, salads, or served fresh, offering both beauty and taste with their delicate purple-flushed pods.

Key Benefits

• Snow Pea Variety: Both the pods and young peas are edible, offering a delicious, crisp texture.
• Compact Growth: Grows to a manageable height of 18–24 inches, ideal for small gardens, containers, or raised beds.
• High Yield: Produces generous harvests of sweet, crunchy pods.
• Mild and Sweet Flavor: Offers a delicate, sweet flavor, perfect for fresh eating or cooking.
• Cold-Tolerant: Performs well in cooler climates, ideal for spring and fall planting.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Dwarf, bushy plants with a compact growth habit, ideal for smaller spaces.
• Flavor Profile: Sweet and tender, with a mild flavor that enhances dishes without overpowering them.
• Growth Habit: Bush-type plant that requires no trellis and is well-suited for container gardening.
• Size: Pods grow to 3–4 inches, with a unique purple blush on the pods.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Plant in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked or in late summer for a fall harvest.
• Dwarf Grey Sugar peas grow best in temperatures ranging from 55°F–75°F (13°C–24°C).

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds 1–2 inches deep.
• Spacing: Space seeds 2 inches apart, with rows 12–18 inches apart.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
• Sunlight: Full sun is best, but they can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist, especially during flowering and pod formation.
• Water deeply once a week to encourage strong root development and even moisture.

Fertilization

• Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10) to promote healthy growth without excessive foliage.

Weeding and Mulching

• Weed regularly to minimize competition for nutrients.
• Mulch around the base of plants to help retain moisture and keep the soil cool.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Watch for aphids, pea weevils, and cutworms; use row covers or organic pest control methods as necessary.
• Diseases: Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Rotate crops each season to prevent disease buildup.

Harvesting

Maturity

• Dwarf Grey Sugar peas are ready to harvest in about 60 days.
• Harvest when pods are fully formed but still tender and sweet.

Method

• Pick pods regularly to encourage continued production. Gently snap or cut pods from the plant without damaging the vine.

Storage

• Short-Term: Store fresh pods in the refrigerator for up to 5–7 days.
• Long-Term: Blanch and freeze for longer storage while maintaining flavor and texture.

Culinary Uses

• Fresh Eating: Enjoy the sweet, crunchy pods directly from the garden.
• Stir-Fries: Toss into stir-fries for a fresh, crisp bite.
• Salads: Add raw peas to salads for extra crunch and flavor.
• Sautéed or Steamed: Lightly cook to retain their sweet, delicate taste.

Conclusion

Dwarf Grey Sugar peas are the perfect choice for gardeners looking to grow a flavorful, space-efficient snow pea variety. With their sweet, crunchy pods and compact growth habit, they are well-suited for small gardens or containers. Whether enjoyed fresh, cooked, or preserved, Dwarf Grey Sugar peas offer versatile and delightful flavor for any dish.