Today in Gardenprue, we are going to talk about growing peas . It is a very common vegetable that can be consumed both fresh and cooked for a multitude of dishes. If you are one of those who consider peas essential as ingredients in your kitchen, what better way than growing them in your garden.
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A SHORT HISTORY OF GROWING PEAS
The pea s are typical of the Mediterranean, although at present, for recognition, cultivation is spread all over the planet. They offer a great reward for the gardener, since unlike many vegetables that need to be cooked, peas can be harvested and consumed on the spot while the cultivation work continues (many of you will).
Remember that it is a legume and in addition to having a large amount of proteins and minerals, it contributes to the contribution of nitrogen to the soil due to bacteria of the genus Rhizobium , which are fixed in the roots of the pea.
CLIMATE AND SOIL. CAN I GROW THEM IN MY GARDEN?
The climate where the peas grow is temperate, although when the winter cold arrives, it is able to withstand temperatures below 3º C below zero. However, below 5º C it stops its growth and development, so it is advisable to give it temperatures between 15 and 20º C.
Regarding the soil , peas are not very demanding with regard to the quality of the soil. The best ones are those that have a good amount of organic matter, in case your soil cannot offer those requirements (which in most cases it will be like that), it is enough that you periodically add compost around the pea crop.
Flooded soils must be avoided at all costs. Is that generally, always and for all crops you have to avoid these soils, unless it is clear that you want to try rice cultivation.
Regarding the pH, the cultivation of peas does not require acidic soils and prefers neutral soils (6.5-7).
FERTILIZING THE SOIL, PREPARATORY WORK IN THE CULTIVATION OF PEAS
When planting peas, it is necessary to do a deep work of the soil. Usually 4-5 kg of manure or compost is added for every square meter of pea crop. With this we will already have enough organic matter for the crop, since the rest will be provided by the nitrogen fixers that we have mentioned before.
IRRIGATION
The soft, spongy soil with a good amount of organic matter retains moisture very well. The pea likes these conditions. In the cultivation of peas it is important not to leave the plant in drought for a long time and it is necessary to take stepwise risks. The humus around the plant will do the rest.
HOW TO SOW THE PEAS?
Furrows 5-10 cm deep and 10 cm wide are hoed. When we have the trench made, it is a matter of distributing the seeds so that they are 5 cm between them. Once you have the peas sown, you have to cover them with the earth from the ditch and tamp it either with a hoe or yourself. To activate germination you have to water generously and soak the entire soil.
There is a trick to germinate faster in growing peas and it is to soak the peas 2 days before planting.
Once the peas grow and gain height, it is necessary to train them. With sticks or sticks of woody trees they are nailed near the stem of the plant or a string can be designed throughout the garden to hold the row of peas. If you have the garden nearby to avoid the intrusion of animals, take advantage of it and secure them around the fence or fence.