How to Grow Super Snappy Peas

Obtain Super Snappy peas from a seed catalog or online nursery. These peas are not a common variety, and as such, are unlikely to be found in local gardening centers. Avoid using pea seeds stored longer than four years to ensure quality germination.

Choose a planting spot in the garden or yard. The area should receive six to eight hours of direct daily sunlight for optimal pea growing conditions. If you live in a region with extremely hot weather in early summer, consider planting in a slightly more shaded area to protect peas from excessive heat. Prepare to plant seeds in the spring once the ground has warmed to 45 degrees Fahrenheit or when outside temperatures average 50 degrees.

Work a layer of well-rotted manure or compost into the top layer of the garden soil. A rich, neutral to slightly akaline soil provides an ideal environment for pea growth.

Sow pea seeds directly into the soil about 1.5 to 2 inches deep. Space seeds 2 inches apart in rows 2 to 3 feet apart. Water lightly but frequently, keeping the soil moist until seedlings appear.

Install netting over the young plants to keep birds out as the pea vines begin to spread and grow. Control weeds, especially in the early growing period when the soil remains exposed. Continue watering as needed, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Watering in the morning helps prevent leaf diseases that often occur when plants are left wet overnight.

Harvest Super Snappy peas once young pods have developed, typically 65 days after seed germination. Pods will appear swollen and round once they are ready for picking. Use or preserve peas shortly after picking, since the sugars quickly begin converting to starch once harvested. Harvest daily for as long as the plant continues producing, typically a week or two after the initial harvest is completed.