Sugar Ann Pea Guide

Sugar Ann is a 1984 All American Selection Winner known for its sweet, compact 3” pods and high yields. As the heirloom matures early and produces well all season long, pluck it off the stems for a delicious snack or freeze for dishes any time of the year.

TO SOW

Sugar Ann peas grow best in cooler weather between 55°F-70°F. They do great in containers and small gardens. Bank on Seeds recommends direct seeding.

If Direct Seeding

• Direct seed outside 1 week after last frost date; or

• Direct seed into a container 8-10 inches deep and wide anytime of the year. It can be placed outside when the temperature is between 55°F-70°F; or

If Transplanting

Begin the growing season early and start the pea seeds indoors in trays or pods 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Germination is best and fastest between 65°F-75°F. It can be transplanted outside 4 weeks later.

Sow seeds ½ inch deep and 1-2 inches apart with rows spaced 18-24 inches apart. Germination will take 6-10 days.

TO GROW

Peas like well-drained soil rich with aged compost and organic matter.  They also love full sun and partial shade. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist and don’t let it dry out fully between watering. Check the top 1-2 inches of soil and if it is dry, then water it.

Apply mulch to the top of soil to retain moisture, regulate temperature and deter weeds. Peas don’t require fertilizer but if needed, add aged manure or aged compost onto the soil.

TO REAP

Sugar Ann peas develop in 52 days. They peas can be picked by gently twisting it when the pods reach 3 inches long. They are a sweet variety that can be plucked straight off the plant as a snack or incorporated into your cooking. Picking frequently will encourage more pod production. This variety does especially well with freezing.

PESTS/DISEASES

Aphids, cabbage worms and loopers, cucumber beetles, slugs - hand pick off, neem oil, insecticidal spray, plant collar or row covers, spray with pesticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis

Blight, downy mildew, wilt - ensure enough air circulation, cut off affected parts, fungicide, neem oil, do not handle vines when wet, water at base not from overhead

*Companion plant peas with carrots, celery, swiss chard, cucumber, squash, spinach, and strawberries. Avoid planting with onions and garlic. *