Planting
Direct seeding is the preferred method for growing members
of the pea family. They should be planted on raised beds
made by adding large amounts of sifted compost or other
soil amendments so that a bed is established above the
previous level of soil. Peas should be sown so that
they are planted 1 to 2 inches deep, in double rows
spaced 3 to 6 inches apart, and 2 feet between the next
double row. Peas will tolerate crowding and can be spaced
2 inches apart in the row. For a family of four, a moderate
row length would be 30 to 40 feet. Fungicide-treated
seed is highly recommended for all types of peas. If
peas are grown during the summer months, young seedlings
can be protected with 50% shade cloth or 2 layers of
floating row cover until they have about 6 leaves. This
helps protect them from sunburn as well as seedling pests
such as flea beetles, vegetable weevils, leafminers,
snails, and slugs. It may also protect them from birds. |  |
