Every summer, as the days grow long and the gardens green, the UK turns its affection to one of our most beloved vegetables: the humble pea. In fact, our love for this tiny green powerhouse is so strong that we dedicate an entire week to it!
Peas have long held a cherished spot on British plates. From mushy peas with fish and chips to minty peas alongside a Sunday roast, they’re a comfort food staple and a kitchen classic. Their sweet taste, vibrant colour, and versatility make them the unsung heroes of the vegetable world.
But it’s not just tradition that makes us proud of our peas. The UK is a major producer of frozen peas, particularly in East Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Norfolk, where around 700 pea farmers grow over 160,000 tonnes every year. The harvesting process is so fast-paced and high-tech that freshly picked peas are frozen within 150 minutes of being plucked from the pod – locking in flavour, nutrients, and freshness.
Great British Pea Week from the 7-13th July, launched by the Yes Peas! campaign, aims to celebrate this success, shine a light on the farmers, and encourage everyone to appreciate and cook with peas more often.
But, how about YOU grow some! Here’s the Hildreth’s guide
Whether you’ve got a sprawling garden or a sunny balcony, peas are one of the easiest and most rewarding vegetables to grow yourself.
Choose the Right Variety
There are three main types of peas:
- Garden peas: Classic green peas, ideal for freezing or cooking.
- Mangetout: You eat the whole pod—crisp, sweet and great in stir-fries.
- Sugar snap peas: A cross between garden peas and mangetout, juicy and crunchy.
When and where to plant
Sow peas from March to June for summer crops – so if you are reading this in June, you still have time! Some hardy varieties can be planted in autumn for an early spring harvest. Peas like full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. Raised beds or containers with supports (like bamboo canes or pea netting) are perfect for climbing varieties.
How to Plant
- Soak seeds in water overnight to speed up germination.
- Sow seeds about 2 inches apart, and 1 inch deep, in rows spaced 18–24 inches apart.
- Water regularly, especially when flowering and podding.
Care and Harvesting
- Mulch around the base to keep roots cool and moist.
- Protect from birds with netting until plants are well established.
- Pick pods regularly to encourage more to grow- don’t let them over-ripen or they’ll become tough.
Enjoy the Rewards
Peas are best eaten fresh, straight from the pod. If you’ve grown more than you can eat, they freeze beautifully – just like their supermarket counterparts!
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