A compact, early variety of pea. Half-hardy in the UK; cannot stand temperatures below freezing.
This variety of pea has been grown to be compact, needing less staking out, and its crops of peas fill the blunt-ended pods with a heavy crop. The RHS has awarded this plant with its prestigious Award for Garden Merit, and describes the peas as 'well-flavoured'. At 60cm tall, they are quite compact and need less support than most peas; they are also small enough to grow comfortably in a container! They will also treat you with small, white flowers in summer before the veg starts to grow, as well as pretty green foliage from spring onwards, giving you even more to love about these peas.
Annual
Vegetable: vining, compact, early crop
Peas will be ready to harvest around July - August; flowers in summer just before this
Scientific Name Pisum sativum (pea that is sown) 'Early Onward'
Common Name Pea 'Early Onward', Early Pea
Origin Originates in the Mediterranean region.
Pruning Tips Not necessary, but you should look to harvest the peas in summer; if you harvest regularly, it'll encourage more veg to grow!
Wildlife Value Known for attracting bees, this plant's flowers are rich in pollen and nectar.
Positioning This plant will give the best crop in full sun Water Keep the soil moist, especially whilst it's flowering and whilst pods are growing.
Soil Soil should be fertile and well-draining, while retaining some moisture.
Food Feed the soil with a general fertilised before planting/sowing
Pet-safe Yes; no toxicity reported, though it's best for the plant, your pets and your harvest if they don't nibble too much!
Sprouts Top Tips Your peas will grow best if you keep the soil moist; it's a good idea to check and water once a week once it starts blooming, especially as this will be in the driest part of the year.
We have launched our first (hopefully monthly) ‘Letter from the Founder’ blog post. I talk about a string of bad luck, from water gushing from various ceilings in my life to a break-in, and also reflect on the incredible work we have done to win two awards earlier this year. I look ahead to what’s coming up in August, projects we are working on with our clients, and some thoughts about the rest of the year. And I give an insight into my brain, why I am who I am and why I’m so thankful for all the opportunities, passion and excitement that running Sprouts has given me as a founder and as a woman.