Beaujolais Sweet Pea is a frost-tolerant climbing variety of Lathyrus odoratus prized for its fragrant blooms and edible pods. This cultivar thrives in cool-season gardens, germinating best at temperatures between 55, 65°F and tolerating frost that would damage tender annuals. Sow it early in spring or in fall in mild climates to enjoy cascades of blooms and tender, sweet pea pods throughout the season. Plant it where it can climb on a trellis or support, positioned in full sun to partial shade with moderate water and slightly neutral soil.
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Beaujolais Sweet Pea germinates reliably in cool soil and tolerates frost, making it a dependable choice for early spring planting or fall sowing in warmer regions. Its climbing growth habit pairs well with a sturdy trellis, creating vertical interest while producing edible, tender pods. The combination of fragrance, productivity, and frost hardiness sets this variety apart for gardeners working in cool-season climates or seeking to extend their growing season beyond typical frost dates.
Beaujolais Sweet Pea produces edible pods that can be harvested young and tender for fresh eating, added to salads, or lightly steamed as a delicate vegetable side dish. The plant also serves as an ornamental climber, valued for its fragrant flowers that attract pollinators while filling the garden with the classic sweet pea scent.
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Start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before your average last frost date. Sow seeds at a depth of 1 inch in seed-starting mix, keeping the soil at 55, 65°F for reliable germination. Transplant seedlings into individual pots once they reach 3 inches tall.
Transplant seedlings outdoors 4 to 6 weeks before your average last frost date, spacing plants 6 inches apart along a trellis or climbing support. Harden off seedlings gradually over 7, 10 days before moving them to their final location.
Direct sow seeds outside 4 to 6 weeks before your average last frost date in cool climates, or in late fall to early winter in mild climates for spring bloom. Plant seeds 1 inch deep, spaced 6 inches apart along a trellis or support structure.
Harvest sweet pea pods when they are young and tender, typically before the peas inside become too large and starchy. Pick pods by hand, gently snapping them from the vine. Regular harvesting encourages continued pod production throughout the growing season.
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