Even in New York City, you can grow peas right in your own backyard (or rooftop, or fire escape, or wherever you can find a spare inch of soil). Peas love NYC’s cooler weather so growing peas will give you something to do when your seasonal affective disorder starts to kick in. With this grow guide, you can turn your little outdoor space into a pea-producing powerhouse.
Peas need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Indoors: Not suitable for indoor growing; best grown outdoors in pots or garden beds with trellis support.
Keep soil consistently moist. Water regularly, especially in full sun conditions. Mulching helps retain moisture.
Peas are a cool weather crop and enjoy 45-75°F, ideally 60-65°F. Plant outdoors in March-May and August-September in NYC zone 7b. Cool weather supports tender pods.
Indoors: Not ideal; Outdoors: 10-12" wide, 12" deep, 3-5 gallons
Peas thrive in well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix with organic compost or cow manure.
Use balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer 5-10-10 every 4-6 weeks. Organic options: compost or worm castings. Regular, moderate fertilization supports healthy growth.
Peas are ready for harvest 60-70 days after planting, or when the pods are plump and firm. Pea plants complete their life cycle in 1 season and typically live for 2 to 4 months.
Minimal trimming is needed, but removing dead or damaged leaves helps keep the plant healthy and productive, ensuring sweet peas.
Wilting: Water regularly. Pests (Aphids): Spray with soapy water or release green lacewing larvae. Yellow Leaves: Moderate watering. Slow Growth: Use balanced fertilizer. Diseases (Downy Mildew): Improve air circulation.
There are around 10-15 varieties of arugula gardeners commonly grow. One of the perks of growing arugula at home is the opportunity to experiment with different varieties that you won't find at the grocery store.
Do you have any questions or requests? I'm here to help!