(Lathyrus odoratus) While most of the attention on sweet peas these days lies with the big exhibition cut-flower Spencers, we do still love the old-fashioned cultivars with their amazing fragrance and delicate flowers set among graceful tangles of vines. Introduced in 1905, Flora Norton features lovely sky blue blooms, similar in color to the larger ‘Bristol,’ but with all the elegance and subtlety of the grandifloras. Our love of sweet peas is endless. At the height of the season, we do try to simply sit among them or, at the very least, walk more slowly. Alone. Luckily, there are usually many, many, many sweet pea rows. Very, very fragrant... among the very best. 80 days. LS
Sow indoors in late Winter (6-7 weeks before the last frost).
Transplant or Direct Sow in early Spring. If direct sown, it is crucial to maintain consistent soil moisture.
Note: For uniform germination, we like to soak seeds overnight prior to sowing. Nick any seeds that do not swell, and then continue to rinse and drain (twice/day) until roots just start to appear.
PLANTING DEPTH:
1/2"
SPACING:
6-8" in rows 5' apart.
EMERGENCE:
5-14 days @ soil temp 50-55F. Sweet peas do best in cool soil and temperatures. A lot of green growth occurs in the 30-55F range, and the plants can definitely handle temperatures down into the 20s! 70F is the optimal temperature for blooming. Sow early for early blooms, or we've found success planting in areas that will see some afternoon shade.
LIGHT:
Full sun to mostly full sun
FERTILITY:
Moderate-rich. Prefers rich, evenly moist, and well-drained soil.
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Transplant gently to avoid root disturbance, and keep soil level at a similar height & evenly moist.
Stake or provide netting to keep them upright and tidy.
Although they will likely branch independently, to encourage branching, pinch at 6" tall to the third leaf node.
Deadhead to encourage blooms and discourage seed set.
Stiff cut stems, with 2 unopened buds, have a 4-5 day vase life.
