| After several years of trying different approaches to
growing Sweet Peas in containers, I finally devised a system that works.
The secret to success is resisting the urge to cram several plants into
one container, thereby giving the peas adequate growing room.
I use a large porous container. Plastic or glazed ceramic pots cause the
roots of the peas to get too hot. I use the 8 gallon size from Western
Pulp products. Purchasing a clay pot would be a more attractive choice,
but for my purpose clay is too heavy.
I use good potting soil. This will vary in different parts of the
country, so ask the folks at a reputable garden center which is the best
one in your area.
A trellis of some sort is required to hold up the plants. The bamboo
"U" trellis is both attractive and inexpensive. You can also
use pruned branches to make a wigwam. Those feeling extravagant can
purchase fabricated trellises at a garden center. Your support should be
no shorter than four feet.
Between September and January, plant six to eight seeds of Old Fashion
Sweet Peas in the pot. Because their foliage is more delicate, they are
the variety of choice for this project. When the plants have 4 leaves,
thin to the four best plants and let them grow through the winter. They
should be okay outside in all but the coldest weather. Mine are outside,
but under plastic and protected from the wind. There they have survived
temperatures as low as 18 degrees. (This is not to say I don’t worry
when the temperature dips.) When the plants are about 8 inches tall
start tying them to their supports. The idea that the peas will guide
themselves up the supporting structure is very romantic but, sorry, it
doesn’t work.
In late February, poke four more seeds of the Old Fashion varieties
among those planted earlier (which by now are 18-30" tall.) These
will germinate when the soil temperature warms to about 60 degrees.
Watch everything grow and bloom, making sure to cut the flowers.
Although mine usually start blooming in March, last year they waited
until the end of April, because we had an exceptionally cold spring.
Around June 1 the first batch of plants will start to yellow and
generally look pretty shabby. Cut them out piece by piece. The
spring-sown varieties will remain and will be cascading over the side of
the pot. Secure these to the supporting structure and add some
fertilizer to the pot. Your second batch of flowers will start blooming
in another week and should continue for at least six more weeks, if you
protect them from the scorching afternoon sun.
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