Pea Seeds - Wando

Wando peas are a versatile, heat-tolerant garden pea variety, ideal for extending the growing season into warmer months. Known for their resilience and ability to adapt to a wide range of climates, Wando peas produce delicious, sweet peas in plump pods. This variety is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for reliable performance in both spring and late summer planting. Whether enjoyed fresh, frozen, or canned, Wando peas deliver consistent flavor and productivity.

Key Benefits

• Heat Tolerance: Thrives in warmer conditions, making it suitable for late-season planting.
• Cold Resilience: Performs well in cool spring temperatures, offering versatility in planting times.
• High Yield: Produces an abundance of pods filled with tender, sweet peas.
• Flavorful: Known for its rich, sweet taste, perfect for fresh eating or cooking.
• Versatile in Storage: Ideal for fresh consumption, freezing, or canning.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Compact, bushy plants growing 18–30 inches tall.
• Flavor Profile: Sweet, tender peas with a classic garden flavor.
• Growth Habit: Semi-determinate, producing peas over an extended period.
• Size: Pods grow to 3–4 inches, containing 6–8 peas each.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Sow seeds in early spring for a spring harvest or late summer for a fall crop.
• Wando peas thrive in temperatures ranging from 40°F–75°F (4°C–24°C).

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds 1–2 inches deep.
• Spacing: Space seeds 2–3 inches apart in rows 18–24 inches apart.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun but can tolerate light shade.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Keep soil evenly moist, especially during flowering and pod development.
• Water deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water.

Fertilization

• Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10) sparingly, as peas naturally fix nitrogen.

Weeding and Mulching

• Weed regularly to reduce competition, being careful not to disturb shallow roots.
• Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Trellising

• Although Wando peas are bushy, light staking or support can help keep pods off the ground and improve air circulation.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Monitor for aphids, cutworms, and pea weevils. Use row covers or organic pest control methods if needed.
• Diseases: Rotate crops annually and ensure good garden hygiene to prevent powdery mildew and root rot.

Harvesting

Maturity

• Ready to harvest in 65–75 days.
• Harvest pods when they are plump, bright green, and filled with peas.

Method

• Gently pinch or cut pods from the plant to avoid damaging the vines.
• Regular harvesting encourages continued pod production.

Storage

• Short-Term: Store fresh peas in the refrigerator for up to 5–7 days.
• Long-Term: Shell peas and blanch before freezing, or preserve through canning for extended storage.

Culinary Uses

• Fresh Eating: Enjoy sweet peas directly from the pod as a healthy snack.
• Side Dishes: Steam or sauté peas as a simple, flavorful side dish.
• Soups and Stews: Add to hearty dishes for a burst of sweetness.
• Preservation: Ideal for freezing or canning without losing flavor.

Conclusion

Wando peas are a dependable, heat-tolerant variety perfect for gardeners looking to extend their pea harvest into warmer months. With their adaptability, high yields, and exceptional flavor, Wando peas are a must-have for any vegetable garden. Whether eaten fresh, preserved, or cooked into your favorite dishes, these peas are sure to impress.