Once Germinated, How Long Until Sweet Peas Flower?

Care of Seedlings

• Sweet peas should not be coddled. They are hardy plants and can survive light frosts. If sown in the fall, they will develop strong root systems and can be planted out as soon as the soil is workable for flowering in May. When sown outside, make sure you have protection against mice, who love to dig up the seeds. Place holly leaves on the soil and put down slug pellets to stop slugs and snails gobbling up the new shoots.

Planting Out

• Sweet peas grow in any soil as long as it is dug over before planting. They need sun, air and something to climb up. A wigwam of bamboo in the middle of a bed is attractive or a frame covered in netting. Once encouraged on their way, their tendrils will cling to whatever you provide. The first seed stem is best picked off to allow the side stems to bush out and grow thicker.

Care of Sweet Pea Plants

• Sweet peas need to be kept moist at all stages of development. They thrive in sunlight, fresh air and good drainage. Water regularly in the evening or morning so as not to scorch the plants in the heat of the day. Add some liquid feed once a week when flowering starts. If aphids appear, hose them off as you water.

Picking the Flowers

• The more you pick sweet peas, the more they will flower. Stop them producing seed and they will continue to flower right through to October. Harvest them in the morning when the top bloom is still in bud and they will last longer as cut flowers. Plunge them straight into water and wait for the compliments as guests admire the jewel-like colors and gorgeous scent.