Douce Provence Pea Seeds

Has been described as a sweeter version of Feltham First. Douce Provence Peas are an old variety that is well worth growing. The peas are small, but very sweet. Douce Provence Heirloom Peas are a cherished variety known for their delicate, sweet flavour and vibrant green pods. Originating from the Provence region in France, these peas thrive in moderate climates and exhibit exceptional adaptability. The slender vines produce an abundance of tender, succulent peas that are perfect for both fresh consumption and culinary preservation. Gardeners and food enthusiasts value Douce Provence Heirloom Peas for their historical significance, exquisite taste, and the charming connection they offer to the agricultural traditions of the Provence region.

How to grow pea seeds:

Select the Right Variety: Choose a variety of pea that naturally grows to about 3 feet in height. Varieties such as ‘Sugar Snap’ or ‘Snow Peas’ are good choices.

Prepare the Soil: Peas prefer well-drained, loamy soil with a neutral pH. Before planting, enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to provide nutrients.

Planting Time: Peas are a cool-season crop, so plant them in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. In some climates, you can also plant in late summer for a fall harvest.

Sowing Seeds: Plant the seeds about 1 to 1.5 inches deep and 2 inches apart in rows. Rows should be spaced about 18 inches apart.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Peas don’t need a lot of water once they’re established, but they do need regular, even moisture, especially when flowering and forming pods. Peas like their “feet” to be kept cool. I always push more soil up ( Like potatoes) to keep them cool when the temperature starts to rise. I feel this extends my peas season a little!

Support: As the plants will grow to be 3 feet tall, provide support like a trellis, stakes, or a fence for the peas to climb. This is important for keeping the plants upright and healthy.

Fertilization: Peas fix their own nitrogen, so they don’t need much fertilization. However, a light application of a balanced fertilizer at planting can help.

Pest and Disease Control: Watch out for common pests like aphids and pea weevils, and diseases like powdery mildew. Use appropriate organic or chemical controls as needed.

Harvesting: Harvest the peas regularly to encourage more pod production. The timing of the harvest depends on the variety and your taste preference (younger pods are more tender). I have also heard that it is not good to harvest peas while the plant is wet, as it can spread disease. Not sure if this is true, however, we might not want to be in the garden right after the rain compacting the soil anyways!!

Rotation: Don’t plant peas in the same spot year after year as this can lead to disease build-up in the soil.

These seeds are available directly from Garden Faerie Botanicals in the heart of British Columbia, Canada. The collection features heirloom and heritage seeds that are personally cultivated organically without the use of any chemicals. Emphasizing historical, rare, non-GMO seeds, this selection preserves biodiversity through open-pollination.