Quick Reference:

Plant seed 1/4 inch deep spaced 2 inches apart. Germination: 7 to 20 days. Plant pea seed in two rows side by side, 6 inches apart so plants will twine and support each other.

When and where to plant:

Peas grow exceptionally well in Alaska and will mature pods for shelled peas in most areas of the state. In the cooler areas plant seed in a raised bed to hasten maturity or plant an edible pod variety. In the spring, plant peas as soon as the ground can been prepared and has warmed. The young plants tolerate considerable cold, even a light frost, so when peas are planted early they are seldom harmed by cold weather. Choose an area with full sun, cultivate the soil and apply plant food. Soak seed in warm water for 24 hours immediately before planting, NO LONGER, then plant the seed in two parallel rows six inches apart. Plant the seed shallow to take advantage of the sun's warmth, firm soil over seed and keep soil moist until seedlings emerge.

Care:

This short variety does not require staking but grows best when planted in double rows 6 inches apart so the plants can inter-twine for support. Water plants by soaking the soil not the foliage to reduce the danger of disease.

Harvesting:

Pick pods when the peas have enlarged so the pods are plump but still bright green. Hold the vines while picking pods to avoid tearing them.