Pea & Mangetout Plants

Pea Plants FAQs

Take a look at some of the frequently asked questions we receive from those looking to buy Pea Plants in the UK. You can  contact our Customer Service Team or browse our general FAQs for further advice.

When to plant Pea Plants

The best time to plant pea plants in the UK is in early spring, typically from March to April, once the soil has warmed up and is no longer too wet or frozen. Peas prefer cooler weather and can tolerate a light frost, making them ideal for planting early in the season. You can also sow pea seeds in autumn (September to October) for an early spring harvest, particularly in milder regions. Ensure the soil is well-drained and prepared for planting.

How to Plant Pea Plants

To plant pea plants, choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-drained, fertile soil. Prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of about 15 cm and adding organic matter, like compost, to improve soil fertility. Sow pea seeds directly into the ground 2.5 cm deep and 5 cm apart in rows that are spaced about 30 cm apart. For support, you can install a trellis or pea netting to allow the plants to climb. Water the seeds well after planting, and keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, throughout the growing season. Ensure to keep the area free from weeds to help the peas thrive.

How long do Pea Plants take to grow

Pea plants typically take around 8 to 12 weeks to grow from planting to harvest, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Early varieties can be ready in as little as 8 weeks, while maincrop varieties may take up to 12 weeks. Peas are usually harvested once the pods are plump and fully developed, but still tender. For the best flavour, it's recommended to pick peas as soon as they’re ready, as they can lose sweetness quickly if left on the plant too long.

Why Grow Pea Plants?

Growing pea plants is a rewarding way to add fresh, nutritious produce to your garden. Peas are easy to grow and thrive in cooler weather, making them perfect for early spring planting. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibre, offering a healthy addition to meals. By growing peas at home, you can enjoy the sweet, tender flavour of freshly harvested peas, which are far superior to store-bought varieties. Additionally, peas are a great companion plant, helping to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil health for other plants. They’re perfect for small gardens or containers, offering a bountiful harvest in just a few months.

Where can you grow Pea Plants?

Pea plants can be grown in a variety of locations, as long as they have full sun or partial shade and well-drained, fertile soil. They thrive in vegetable gardens, raised beds, or containers, making them ideal for both large and small spaces. Peas grow best in cooler climates, so they are perfect for early spring planting in areas with mild to cool temperatures. They can also tolerate light frosts, making them well-suited for autumn planting in milder regions. Be sure to provide support such as a trellis or netting for climbing varieties, and ensure the soil is rich in organic matter for healthy growth.

Why Buy Pea Plants from Marshalls?

• Our customers are supported by a team of experts dedicated to providing valuable advice. You can also use our growing guides, backed by 70 years of experience, to get the best results from your Pea Plants and other plants.
• You can contact us six days a week – including bank holidays – to discuss our products and services or to chat about all things gardening.
• We pride ourselves on offering fast delivery on all orders, with any 'in stock' plants and seeds sent out within three working days. We're green-fingered in more ways than one, too, thanks to our fully recyclable packaging.
• We won second place at the 2022 Great British Growing Awards for Best Online Retailer.
• Thousands of five-star reviews on Trustpilot and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our products show that we're a company you can trust.