Sweet peas are a quintessential part of British gardening culture, loved for their delightful fragrance, vibrant colours, and nostalgic appeal. But what is it about this humble flower that makes it so beloved, and how can you successfully plant them in your own garden?
Sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus) have been a fixture in British gardens since the early 19th century. Their popularity exploded after the flower was introduced to the UK by the plant collector and nurseryman, Henry Eckford. Over time, they became a symbol of English cottage gardens, known for their climbing vines and colourful, delicate blooms.
A fragrant tradition
Perhaps one of the most alluring aspects of sweet peas is their fragrance. With their distinctive, heady scent, sweet peas are often used in floral arrangements, weddings, and celebrations. The aroma of sweet peas evokes memories of long summer days, making them a staple in gardens up and down the country. Their scent is so iconic that it is even bottled as perfumes, reminding people of the flowers long after the growing season has passed.
An easy-to-grow favourite
Sweet peas are also popular because they are relatively easy to grow in the UK’s temperate climate. The cooler British summers are perfect for sweet peas, as they prefer mild temperatures. They are hardy annuals that, with the right care, can bloom from spring through to late summer, offering months of colour and fragrance.
Perfect for small spaces
Given their climbing nature, sweet peas are ideal for gardeners with limited space. They can be grown on trellises, in hanging baskets, or along fences, making them suitable for everything from cottage gardens to urban terraces. Sweet peas don’t require a huge plot of land, making them accessible to gardeners in even the smallest of spaces.
How to plant sweet peas successfully
While sweet peas are relatively easy to grow, there are a few tips and tricks to ensure they thrive and reward you with a stunning display of flowers…
Choosing the Right Variety
Sweet peas come in a variety of colours, from pastel pinks and blues to vibrant reds and purples. Choose a variety that fits the aesthetic of your garden. Some popular varieties in the UK include the fragrant ‘Cupani,’ the multicoloured ‘Nimbus,’ and the classic ‘Matucana.’
Preparing the Soil
Sweet peas love well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Before planting, ensure that your soil is fertile by adding compost or well-rotted manure. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH is ideal. If you’re planting in containers, make sure the pots have good drainage.
Sowing Sweet Peas
Sweet peas are best sown in early spring, around March or April, when the soil has warmed up. You can either direct sow seeds into the ground or start them indoors in seed trays about 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost. If you start indoors, plant the seeds 2.5 cm deep in pots or trays. If sowing directly in the ground, wait until the soil has warmed up and there’s no risk of frost.
To promote strong root development, consider soaking sweet pea seeds in water for 12–24 hours before planting. This helps speed up germination.
We’ve some established sweet peas in stock now, so we’ve done a lot of the hard work for you!
Creating Support for the Vines
As climbing plants, sweet peas need some form of support to grow properly. Install a trellis, fence, or cane structure where the vines can climb and spread. Ensure the support is sturdy, as sweet pea vines can grow up to 6 feet tall, depending on the variety.
Watering and Feeding
Sweet peas need regular watering to stay healthy, especially during dry spells. Water deeply but avoid waterlogging the soil, as this can cause root rot. A good tip is to water the soil at the base of the plant, not the foliage, to prevent mildew.
Feeding is also essential for healthy growth too. During the growing season, feed sweet peas with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2–3 weeks. Once the plants start flowering, a high-potash fertiliser can help encourage blooms.
Pinching Out and Supporting Growth
As sweet peas grow, pinch out the growing tips once the plants reach about 6 inches tall. This encourages the plants to produce more side shoots, resulting in a bushier and more prolific plant. Regularly tie the stems to the support as they grow, ensuring they are well-positioned to climb.
Deadheading and pruning
To encourage continuous flowering, deadhead spent flowers regularly. This prevents the plant from setting seed and directs its energy into producing more blooms. Once the flowering season is over, cut back the plants to the base, leaving the roots in the ground. In the winter, sweet pea plants are often not hardy enough to survive frost, so they are typically treated as annuals.
Pest and disease control
Sweet peas are generally pest-resistant but can be susceptible to aphids and mildew. To prevent aphid infestations, spray the plants with a gentle organic pesticide or simply rinse them off with water. Mildew can be minimised by ensuring proper air circulation around the plants and watering at the base.
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