Sweet peas: fragrant beauties for the garden

Few flowers are as nostalgic and charming as ornamental sweet peas, Lathyrus odoratus. Their delicate petals, ruffled blooms, and intoxicating fragrance evoke memories of cottage gardens, grandmother’s bouquets, and trellises dripping with color. Whether grown for cut flowers or to add vertical interest to the garden, sweet peas are a must-have for any gardener who loves beauty and scent. Their vegetable counterparts are as delicious as the flower varieties are beautiful, but be cautious not to confuse the two uses.

Sweet peas have been cultivated since the 17th century when a Sicilian monk, Father Francis Cupani, first documented their existence. He sent seeds to England, where they became wildly popular among Victorian gardeners who developed countless varieties with more prominent blooms and enhanced fragrance. Today, sweet peas remain a staple in heirloom and modern gardens.

The global sweet pea industry, particularly in cut flowers and edible peas, plays a significant role in agriculture. The worldwide production of edible peas, including sweet peas, exceeds 18 million metric tons annually, with Canada, China, and Russia leading production. In the United States, pea production covers over 300,000 acres, with major growing regions in the Pacific Northwest and northern states such as Montana and North Dakota. The floral industry sees millions of sweet pea stems sold annually, with high demand for cut flowers in Europe and North America. The average market price for fresh edible peas fluctuates between $300 to $500 per metric ton, depending on quality and seasonality. Sweet peas continue to be a valuable crop for culinary and ornamental purposes, contributing to diverse agricultural economies worldwide.

Sweet peas thrive in cool weather and require some planning for success. Select from heirloom varieties for the most fragrance or modern hybrids for larger, showier blooms. Some beloved varieties include King’s High Scent, Candy Floss, and Windsor. The Flower People is a Cathlamet/Pacific Northwest-based flower farm that grows beautiful varieties of these high-quality seeds. Standout vegetable varieties include Alasa, Green Arrow, and Oregon Sugar Pod.

Sweet peas can be sown in mild climates in the fall for early spring bloom. In colder regions, plant them as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring. Sweet peas prefer rich, well-draining soil with added compost or aged manure, and a neutral to slightly alkaline pH promotes healthy growth. Wrapping seeds in a plastic baggie and a damp paper towel will create the perfect germination environment. Soak overnight or nick them with a file before planting to speed up germination. Sow the seeds an inch deep and a few inches apart. Most sweet peas are vigorous climbers and need a trellis, fence, or netting to scramble up. Dwarf varieties can be grown in containers without support.

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. A balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer encourages flower production over leafy growth. Regularly removing spent blooms will encourage continuous flowering. Sweet peas make excellent cut flowers, filling the home with their signature fragrance. Common issues with sweet peas are that they can be susceptible to powdery mildew, aphids, and root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. Proper air circulation, companion planting, and organic pest control methods help keep these problems at bay.

Sweet peas bring romance to any garden with their unparalleled scent and old-fashioned charm. Whether trailing up a rustic fence or brightening a bouquet, these delicate blooms remind us of the simple pleasures found in nature’s beauty. Start a patch of sweet peas this season, and you’ll be rewarded with a bounty of color and fragrance to enjoy all spring and early summer. A heaping bowl of green nuggets is also a nutritional treat.

Ornamental sweet peas, Lathyrus odoratus, are not edible. The garden peas that are edible are Pisum sativum, also called sweet peas, and they provide a nutritious and delicious addition to meals. Sweet peas are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet. They are low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and salt while rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients. A side benefit is the promotion of weight loss and reduction of cardiac risk.

Sweet peas are a versatile and valuable plant, offering ornamental beauty and nutritious edible varieties. As flowers, they bring color, fragrance, and elegance to gardens and bouquets. As vegetables, edible peas provide essential nutrients and culinary versatility. Whether grown for their charming blooms or as food sources, sweet peas remain a beloved staple in gardens and agriculture alike.

Simple Sweet Pea Salad

2 cups fresh or frozen sweet peas

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

If using frozen peas, blanch them in boiling water for two minutes, then drain and cool. In a large bowl, combine the peas, red onion, feta cheese, and mint. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently and serve chilled.