Snap peas (Pisum sativum var. macrocarpon) are a popular cool-season crop, prized for their sweet flavor and crisp, edible pods. Most varieties require support for a successful harvest. While these plants are natural climbers, their specific growth habit determines the type and size of the structure they need. Only certain dwarf varieties are the exception to this rule, requiring minimal to no assistance. Understanding the difference between snap pea types is the first step in providing the correct support.
Vining and Bush Pea Varieties
Snap peas are categorized into vining and bush varieties. Vining varieties, sometimes called pole peas, are vigorous climbers that can reach impressive heights of four to eight feet or more. These tall plants develop tendrils that actively seek out and cling to any available structure, making strong, vertical support necessary. Bush or dwarf varieties, in contrast, are much shorter, typically growing only one to three feet tall. While these compact plants are often advertised as not needing a trellis, they still benefit from low support to keep them upright. Before planting, check the seed packet, as it indicates the specific variety’s growth habit and expected mature height for planning the necessary support structure.
How Trellising Improves Plant Health and Yield
Providing vertical support for snap peas offers several advantages over letting them sprawl on the ground. Increased air circulation around the foliage helps leaves dry quickly after rain or dew, which reduces the risk of fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Lifting the pods off the moist soil ensures a cleaner, higher-quality harvest that is less susceptible to rot and pests. Trellising maximizes garden space by directing the plant’s energy into vertical growth rather than outward sprawl, leading to higher yields per square foot. Climbing varieties that feel securely attached to a structure tend to produce more pods over a longer period.
Simple Support Structures for Snap Peas
Several easy and low-cost support structures can be constructed to accommodate vining snap peas.
A-Frame Trellis
A simple and effective option is the A-frame trellis, which uses two panels of rigid fencing or netting hinged at the top, forming an inverted “V” shape. This structure is sturdy and allows for planting on both sides, maximizing the use of space.
Netting or Wire
Another practical choice is the use of nylon netting or chicken wire stretched tightly between two robust wooden or metal stakes. The netting should be at least six feet tall to fully support the tallest vining varieties and should be secured before planting the seeds. This method offers a grid of small squares that the pea tendrils can easily grasp as the plants begin to climb.
String Line Support
A third method involves creating a simple string line support, often called a “Florida weave” style for peas. This requires installing tall stakes, such as bamboo poles, at the ends of a row and then running horizontal rows of strong twine between them every six to eight inches as the plants grow. This ladder-like system provides continuous support for the developing vines, which should be gently trained onto the structure immediately after germination.