Mammoth Melting Sugar Pod Pea

Direct sow seeds outdoors in early spring as soon as soil can be worked, or in late summer for a fall crop. Plant seeds 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart in rows spaced 48 inches apart. Germination occurs in cool soil (50 to 70°F), and plants emerge within 1 to 2 weeks.

Pick pods when they reach 4 to 5 inches long and are still tender and bright green, typically 60 to 69 days after sowing. Check plants every 2 to 3 days once flowering begins, as pods mature quickly in cool weather. Harvest by gently pinching the pod from the vine with one hand while steadying the plant with the other, which prevents damage to the vine. Pods are sweetest when picked young but can be left slightly longer if you prefer more mature peas inside the pod. Regular harvesting encourages continued flowering and extended productivity throughout the season.

No pruning is required for this vining variety. Instead, focus on training the growing vines onto your trellis as they develop, guiding tendrils to climb upward and spread evenly across the support structure for maximum light exposure and air circulation.