How to Harvest Black-Eyed Peas

Fresh Black-Eyed Peas

• 1

  Wait until the pods are 2 to 3 inches long. The beans within the pods will just begin to cause bulges in the shape of the pods, and the pods themselves will still be flexible and tender. This is usually 60 to 70 days after planting. Remove the pods from the plant by pulling them gently.

• 2

  Refrigerate the pods for up to two weeks. You can use the black-eyed peas in their pods as a substitute for snap beans in any recipe.

• 3

  Shell the black-eyed peas by pulling the pods open. Use your thumb to push the peas out of the pod and into a bowl. Cook the shelled peas the same day, or store them in the refrigerator or freezer.

Dried Black-Eyed Peas

• 4

  Wait 90 days after planting for the beans to dry on the plant. The pods will be brittle to the touch and brown or yellow. Do not wait so long that the pods split open or you will lose some peas.

• 5

  Pull the dried bean pods off the plant by pulling them gently free.

• 6

  Open the pod with your fingers and push the dried beans into a bowl. Store the dried beans in an airtight container for up to one year.