The wando pea variety was introduced in the 1940’s as an innovation for plant resilience. Their selling point is tolerance for extreme heat and even climates of drought. These peas are also known for high yields and excellent flavor.
Gardeners have included peas as a standard crop for generations. They are well liked and important to a healthy diet. They provide the body with a range of vitamins and nutrients. The only way to get fresh peas is by growing at home. This is because peas contain a sugar content which begins depreciating immediately after harvest. They must be eaten right away, or packaged by freezing or canning. This is why consumers will seldom find fresh peas at a market.
Pea plants require full exposure to sun. Although they can grow in shade, flavor will be lacking and overall crop yield will be low. Seeds can be planted in very early spring even when frost is still on the ground because germination is possible at low temperatures. Once summer arrives, pea plants thrive in heat. Seeds can be sown a second time in late summer to produce a fall crop.
Planting should be done in rows or bunches so that the vines can support each other. The vine of a wando pea plant measures thirty inches and needs to be staked or supported with a trellis. One idea is to plant two rows side by side and then run a stake or line down the middle for supporting both rows.
Peas require regular watering and the soil should be able to drain adequately. Applying fertilizer during the growing season is not necessary. However, seeds need nitrogen for germination, so fertilizer may be applied at time of planting. Pods are ready for harvest 60-80 days from planting. Pods are ready to be picked when they are bright green and filled. It is important to pick mature pods on a regular basis to stimulate production throughout the season.
Pea plants can occasionally experience pest disturbance or disease. Pests can be removed by washing plants with mild soapy water. Local gardening stores can offer advice on other methods for removing pests. Some diseases exist in the soil before planting and require removal of affected plants. General crop rotation every 2-3 years is advisable. For crops with disease issues, rotate the following year in case fungus or bacteria from the soil is the culprit.
Gardeners will definitely find the wando pea to be a welcome addition to their crop. Their beneficial growing traits paired with appealing taste make them a sure staple in the home garden.
Learn more about Wando Pea. Stop by Dale Denton’s site where you can find out all about Pea and what it can do for you.