How To Grow And Care For Sweet Pea Flowers

Lathryrus odoratus

Sweet peas have captured the hearts of many with their whimsical charm. From being a beloved cartoon character’s name to a mother’s affectionate term for her child, the allure of sweet peas extends far beyond their lovely vining nature. As we delve into the world of these captivating flowers, let’s start by exploring their unique beauty. The delicate, intricately folded petals that resemble butterfly wings surround smaller petals that flutter gently in the breeze, a sight to behold.

The array of colors is equally breathtaking – dark pink, light pink, medium pink, lavender, violet, deep purple, red, yellow, white, and blue, all swirling together like a masterpiece by Mother Nature herself. These hues are presented in various ways, including solid colors, bicolor patterns, and mottled designs that add to their visual appeal.

But the magic of sweet peas doesn’t stop there – their fragrance is equally captivating, with notes of honey, orange, and rose combining to create an alluring scent that’s hard to resist. The slender stems and curling tendrils of L. odoratus only add to their charm, making them a popular choice for cut flower arrangements. As we explore this eponymous plant further, let’s uncover the secrets behind its enduring appeal.

What You’ll Learn

Before diving into the world of sweet pea flowers, it’s essential to acknowledge their toxicity to dogs. As such, consider planting them in areas inaccessible to your furry companions or choosing alternative locations altogether. With that cautionary note in place, let’s explore the fascinating aspects of these blooms, including their cultivation and history, propagation methods, and optimal growing conditions.

From pruning and maintenance tips to cultivars to select and strategies for managing pests and diseases, we’ll cover everything you need to know about sweet peas. To top it all off, a quick reference chart is provided for easy consultation. And finally, discover the best uses for these delightful flowers, which add a touch of whimsy and charm to any garden or arrangement.

What Are Sweet Pea Flowers?

The sweet pea flower (Lathyrus odoratus) is an annual climbing plant that belongs to the Lathyrus genus within the Fabaceae family, also known as legumes. Native to the Mediterranean region, it can be found in southern Italy, the Aegean Islands, Sicily, and Cyprus. This variety typically grows between three to seven feet tall when provided with support structures like trellises, arbors, fences, or walls. What’s more, the annual L.

odoratus species is often mistaken for its perennial counterpart, L. latifolius, also known as the everlasting pea.

Cultivation and History

The earliest recorded mention of L. odoratus dates back to 1695, when Francisco Cupani, a monk and amateur botanist, noted the plant’s presence in northwestern Sicily. This initial sighting led to the exchange of seeds with botanists in England and Holland, resulting in the publication of an article featuring the first botanical illustration of the flower. The ‘Cupani’ variety remains a beloved and popular cultivar to this day.

While some may view it as old-fashioned, many argue that the plant’s timeless beauty is revitalized by the ongoing introduction of new, stunning cultivars.

Propagation

When it comes to growing sweet peas from seed, many gardeners opt for collecting their own seeds from plants grown the previous year. These delicate flowers thrive in cool temperatures, requiring around 50 days of temperate weather to bloom. The seeds germinate in soil temperatures between 55-65°F, taking 10-14 days to sprout. While they can be killed back by harsh freezes, sweet peas are relatively cold-hardy and can withstand light frosts without significant damage.

Gardeners in the western United States typically direct sow L. odoratus seeds from August onwards. In contrast, those in the drier plains states, Midwest, and non-coastal northeastern regions should start seeds indoors for transplanting after the harshest weather has passed and the soil has thawed. Alternatively, they can direct sow if their region experiences a sufficient number of cool-but-not-freezing days to allow for seedling growth.

For those in warmer climates, such as the South, November or December is an ideal time for direct sowing. To promote better germination rates, some gardeners lightly nick the seeds with nail clippers before planting. When starting seeds indoors, use a high-quality potting mix in small pots – like Jiffy Pots – and plant them at the recommended depth (check your seed packet for specific guidance). Place the pots in a sunny spot, ensure good drainage, and provide adequate water.

Get ‘Em in the Garden

When your seedlings have developed three or four pairs of leaves, it’s time to harden them off. Move them to an outside location that receives direct morning sun and afternoon shade for three to four days. Next, transfer them to a spot with full-day sunlight. After another four to five days, you can transplant the peas into your garden. For optimal growth, choose a sunny or partially sunny location and amend the soil by adding compost and mixing it well throughout the entire area.

This will enable the roots to grow deeper while still benefiting from the rich nutrients. Most pea varieties are climbing vines, but you can encourage bushy growth by pinching off the tips (we’ll discuss this in more detail later). For climbers, which can reach up to six feet tall, place your transplants near a railing, wall, or fence, or construct a support system using a trellis, frame, or teepee made of bamboo canes.

If you’ve placed your plants near a railing or wall, you can provide additional support by attaching rings and gently weaving the vines as they grow. Alternatively, you can let the vines spread freely to form a ground cover. Ensure each transplant has at least six inches of space for proper air circulation and root growth.

How to Grow: Pinch for More

To cultivate a bushier shape from non-bushy cultivars, training through pinching can be an effective method. Start by gently pinching off the stem tip and new leaf growth just above established leaves using clean pruning shears or your fingernails. Timing is crucial – it’s best to wait until plants have been established outdoors for a few weeks, or until they reach about four inches in height if not transplanting.

Consistency is key; repeat pinching throughout the growing season whenever you notice vines becoming leggy and in need of bushiness promotion. Keep in mind that these plants are more likely to produce seeds quickly if soil becomes too dry – ensure consistent moisture by watering deeply once a week, or as needed based on your local climate and weather conditions.

Growing tips

For optimal growth, these plants thrive in cooler outdoor temperatures. While they’re not fond of direct sunlight, they can still flourish under partial shade conditions. It’s essential to maintain consistent moisture levels in the surrounding soil.

Pruning and Maintenance

To optimize the blooming period of your sweet peas, it’s essential to maintain the overall health and well-being of the plants. Start by carefully deadheading faded flowers and removing any emerging seed pods. This simple yet effective technique will not only prolong the blooming season but also prevent the plants from going to seed prematurely. In addition to this process, fertilizing your sweet peas regularly can have a profound impact on their ability to produce an abundance of blooms.

A key component in achieving this is maintaining rich and moist soil conditions. This can be achieved by incorporating compost into the soil. The nutrients present in the compost will help to nourish the plants, encouraging strong flowering and prolonging the blooming period. When it comes to fertilization, consider using a high potash feed or a compost tea once or twice during the growing season. Both of these options are excellent choices for promoting healthy growth and optimal flowering.

Cultivars to Select

While the original Lathyrus odoratus, also known as sweet peas, boasts a rich history, it’s impressive to note that numerous cultivars have been developed over time, offering a wide range of options for gardeners and enthusiasts alike. The sheer variety of choices is truly remarkable.

Royal Family Mix

For a unique and vibrant garden, consider starting with the ‘Royal Family Mix’ from True Leaf Market. This enchanting blend of colors can be the perfect way to begin your gardening journey. The seeds produce lush vines that grow up to five or six feet tall, making it an excellent choice for adding some drama to your outdoor space. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of color or create a stunning display, this mix is available in various quantities to suit your needs.

High Scent

For those seeking a fragrant addition to their garden, Burpee’s ‘High Scent’ is an excellent option to consider. This unique variety produces large, white flowers with a beautiful edging of lavender, releasing a sweet and alluring aroma that is sure to captivate.

Old Spice Mix

For gardeners seeking a hardy and fragrant option for their scented herb collection, Eden Brothers’ Old Spice Mix is an excellent choice. Characterized by its vibrant colors and potent, alluring aroma, this tried-and-true variety has earned its reputation as a heat-tolerant performer that won’t disappoint.

Little Sweetheart

For gardeners with limited space or a penchant for container gardening, ‘Little Sweetheart’ sweet pea seeds are an excellent choice. This compact variety grows between 8 and 14 inches in height, making it perfect for small plots or indoor arrangements.

Managing Pests and Diseases

While sweet peas can thrive in your garden without major concerns, there are a few minor considerations to keep in mind: the plants’ tendency to sprawl and spread, which may require some support or pruning to maintain their appearance, as well as potential issues with pests like aphids and slugs that can target the delicate flowers.

Insects

When it comes to pests affecting this plant, you may encounter a few unwelcome visitors. Aphids, for instance, can be easily eliminated by blasting them off with a stream of water. For caterpillars and cutworms, consider applying diatomaceous earth around the base of your plants. Leafminers and thrips can be outsmarted using traps, while spider mites may require treatment with neem oil.

Finally, snails and slugs can be controlled using a bait like Sluggo, which is conveniently available from Amazon.

Diseases

To mitigate the risk of mildew, it’s essential to strike the right balance between plant density and sunlight exposure. If your plants are overcrowded or lacking in solar radiation, fungal growth can thrive. To counteract this, consider thinning out the plant population or introducing a fungicide treatment to create an environment less conducive to mildew development.

Best Uses

This climber is a versatile option for any outdoor space. Its ability to scale vertical surfaces, such as fences or walls, makes it an ideal choice for adding visual interest to your yard. For those who prefer a more contained display, growing a dwarf cultivar in a hanging basket or pot can be a great way to showcase its trailing habit. The versatility of this plant allows you to choose from multiple display options, ensuring it fits seamlessly into your unique gardening style.

Sweet Pea Quick Reference Growing Chart

The Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus) is an annual, flowering vine that has been charming gardeners for centuries. Its delicate blooms come in a stunning array of colors, including white, yellow, deep purple, violet, lavender, blue, pink, and red. Native to the Mediterranean region, this plant thrives in rich, organic soil with moderate maintenance. It’s hardy in USDA zones 2-11 and can tolerate deer and rabbit infestations.

The Sweet Pea blooms from late winter to early summer, depending on your location. In terms of growing conditions, it prefers well-draining soil and full sun to part shade. The ideal pH range is neutral to slightly alkaline (7.0-7.5). Plant the seeds in the fall for spring growth, spacing them 6 feet apart. Companion planting with sweet alyssum or lobelia can enhance its performance. The Sweet Pea has a unique rhizome-based growth habit that can spread densely.

It’s an excellent choice for climbing on walls, fences, or trellises, or for dwarfing varieties in hanging baskets. Attractive to bees and butterflies, it’s a delight to have in your garden. This vintage but relevant beauty is more than just its pretty face; it also has a sweet fragrance that will fill the air. With moderate watering needs, you can enjoy its showy flowers for weeks. If you’ve had success with this lovely annual, we’d love to hear about it!

Share your experiences and let us know what you love most about the gorgeous Sweet Pea.