In India, you can grow different varieties of peas, including garden peas, snow peas, and snap peas. Garden peas are the most common of the lot, known for their sweet, plump pods. Snow peas have flat pods that are eaten whole, and snap peas are sweet and crisp. For home gardening however, garden peas are usually the preferred choice because of how easy they are to cultivate and their high yield.
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Peas thrive in cooler temperatures, making them ideal for planting during the cooler months in India. The best time to plant peas is during the winter season—from late October to December. In regions with mild winters, peas can be grown from October to February. They are not suited for hot and humid conditions, so planting them during cooler weather ensures better growth and yield.
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In Indian kitchens, peas are added to a variety of dishes including curries such as Matar Paneer and Aloo Matar, where they add texture and subtle sweetness to rich gravies. Peas are also used in pulao and biryanis, giving a vibrant green pop of colour to these rice dishes. In snacks, they make an appearance in samosas, kachoris, and stuffed parathas. Peas are also paired with vegetables and spices in stir-fry dishes with potatoes, carrots, or cauliflower.
Peas are known to be rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which support immunity, skin health, and bone strength. They are an excellent source of fibre, aiding digestion and helping maintain a healthy gut. You can easily grow peas at home and find interesting ways to add them to your meals.
To begin, choose a sunny spot with at least 4-6 hours of sunlight each day. Peas need ample light to thrive but can tolerate partial shade. Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12-15 inches. This allows the roots to penetrate easily. Add organic compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil. Make sure there is good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. If you are planting peas in pots or containers, use a well-draining potting mix and check that the containers have drainage holes.
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Planting Peas
Choose high-quality pea seeds from a reliable source. Look for seeds that are plump and firm, avoiding shrivelled or discoloured ones. Before planting, soak the pea seeds in water for 6-8 hours or overnight. This helps to soften the seed coat and improve germination.
Sow the seeds directly into the soil at a depth of about 1-2 inches. Space the seeds 2 inches apart in rows. Water the soil gently after planting to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Peas are climbing plants and benefit from support as they grow. You can use stakes, trellises, or even a simple mesh to support the plants. Install the support structure at the time of planting or shortly after to avoid disturbing the roots later.
.If space is limited, you can grow peas in containers or pots. Use a deep container, at least 12 inches and provide a support structure for the climbing plants.
Caring For Pea Plants
Peas are nitrogen-fixing plants and usually do not require additional nitrogen fertilisers. However, you can use a balanced fertiliser if the soil is low in nutrients. Use compost or a well-balanced vegetable fertiliser if necessary. Keep the garden bed free of weeds, which can compete with peas for nutrients and water. Mulching can help reduce weed growth and retain soil moisture. Monitor the plants for common pests such as aphids, pea weevils, and powdery mildew. Use organic pest control methods or insecticidal soap if necessary.
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Harvesting Peas
Peas are usually ready for harvest 60-90 days after planting, depending on the variety. Harvest the pods when they are plump and bright green. For garden peas, the pods should be tender but not over-mature, as they can become starchy. Gently squeeze the pods to check if they are filled with peas. Pick the peas regularly to encourage continuous production. If the plants are left too long, the peas will become overripe and lose their sweetness.
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After harvesting, remove any remaining pea plants and clean up the garden bed. This helps to prevent the buildup of pests and diseases for future crops. You can save some seeds from your harvest for the next planting season, but make sure they are properly dried and stored in a cool, dry place.