Late Varieties of Vegetable Pea for Extended Harvest
Peas, a beloved vegetable among gardeners and food enthusiasts, are not only delicious but also extremely nutritious. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making them a perfect addition to any balanced diet. Many gardeners relish the early harvest of peas in spring, but did you know that there are also late varieties of vegetable peas that can provide a bumper crop well into the summer months?
Late varieties of vegetable peas are an excellent choice for those seeking an extended harvesting season. These varieties take a little longer to mature, allowing you to enjoy fresh peas at a time when early varieties have already come and gone. Planting these late varieties can ensure a constant supply of peas throughout the summer, offering a delightful addition to your meals and preserving the joy of eating homegrown vegetables.
One popular late variety of pea is the Alderman pea. Named after the famous British politician George Henry Alderman, this variety boasts long-podded peas that are both succulent and sweet. Alderman peas can take up to 90 days to mature, making them ideal for those looking to prolong pea season. These tall climbers reach an impressive height of up to six feet and require sturdy support such as trellises or poles. Their lovely flowers and delicate tendrils make them an aesthetic addition to any garden.
Another notable late variety is the Wando pea. Wando peas are often sought after due to their high resistance to heat and disease. With a maturity period of around 75 days, Wando peas produce an abundant yield of plump, sweet peas perfect for fresh consumption or freezing for later use. These bush-type peas, growing to an average of two to three feet in height, require less support and are excellent for smaller gardens or container planting.
For those who prefer a compact and easy-to-grow pea variety, the Lincoln pea fits the bill. With a maturity period similar to Wando peas, Lincoln peas are reliable producers that offer an abundant harvest. These disease-resistant peas present a delightful flavor and a satisfying crunch. Growing to a height of approximately two to three feet, Lincoln peas require minimal support and are suitable for gardeners with limited space.
Cultivating late varieties of vegetable peas follows similar guidelines to their early counterparts. Peas are cool-season vegetables, preferring temperatures below 70 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure a successful crop, select a sunny location for planting and provide well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Peas are legumes, which means they fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting both themselves and other plants in the garden.
Remember to sow late varieties of peas directly into the ground or containers in the spring, once the threat of frost has passed. Maintain adequate moisture levels, particularly during flowering and pod formation. Regularly harvest mature pea pods to encourage continuous production. Late varieties may require additional time to mature, so be patient and enjoy the anticipation of a bountiful late summer harvest.
In conclusion, late varieties of vegetable peas offer gardeners the opportunity to extend the pleasure of harvesting and devouring fresh peas well into the summer months. The Alderman, Wando, and Lincoln peas are just a few examples of delicious and rewarding late varieties available for cultivation. By including these varieties in your garden, you can relish the taste of homegrown peas all season long. Happy gardening and bon appétit!