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Snap peas (Sugar Snap)

legume

Growing reference
Spacing
3 in(8 / sqft)
Trellis
yes
Direct seed
Mar 11(-5 w)
Harvest
~9–11 weeks from sowing
Last fall harvest
Oct 15 – Nov 12(at frost to +4 w)
Water
1-2 per week
Seed shelf life
3–4 y
Lifecycle
annual
Seed source
Johnny's Selected Seeds

Sow as soon as soil can be worked (peas tolerate cold). Spring crop is far more productive than fall in Zone 7 — summer heat ends production by mid-July. Trellis at planting; vines grab on once they find it.

First spring on the new trellised beds. Sugar Snap on the north edge of Bed C, climbing up twines.

Old-school edible-pod variety — tall vines, sweet pods, classic flavor. I made a mistake seeding them indoor and transplanted - most seem to be doing okay though. I will try direct seeding next time given that’s the recommended appraoch.

  1. May 23, 2026
    Top of the trellis (May 24, 2026)
    Top of the trellis (May 24, 2026)

    Vines have reached the top of the trelis and are starting to fold back over. Heavy fruit set throughout — picking should start any day.

  2. May 21, 2026
    Trellis filled in (late May 2026)
    Trellis filled in (late May 2026)

    The whole panel covered in pea vines after another warm week — the twine pretty much disappears once they get going.