In this special last-minute episode, I address the flood of questions I've received about sweet peas—from customers, journalists, and bloggers. I share my personal tips on when and how to sow sweet peas, the benefits of autumn versus spring sowing, and how to keep your plants strong and blooming from May through September. Whether you’re dealing with leggy seedlings or wondering if you should soak your seeds, I break down everything you need to know to enjoy a vibrant display of sweet peas all season long.

Takeaways

• Sweet peas are hardy annuals that bloom best when sown in autumn for early flowering the following year.
• Sowing in a greenhouse or cold frame helps prevent leggy growth, while ensuring proper airflow minimizes the risk of damping off.
• Pinching out tall, floppy tips not only keeps the plants bushy but also lets you root the cuttings for extra plants..
• Regular cutting every two to three days prevents seed set and encourages continuous blooming.
• After years of practice, I’ve discovered that soaking sweet pea seeds isn’t necessary
• Protect your seeds and seedlings from pests like mice, squirrels, and slugs with simple covers or barriers.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode
Growing Sweet Peas Blog
Sweet Peas from Cuttings Blog

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