Black-eyed peas (Vigna unguiculata), often called cowpeas, are a warm-weather crop native to West Africa that thrive in heat and are a staple in many cuisines. While commercial seed packets offer the highest certainty of success, untreated, dried beans purchased for cooking can often be used to start a successful garden crop. This provides a simple method for sourcing a large quantity of seed once viability is confirmed.
Testing Dried Beans for Germination Potential
Using dried beans requires a preliminary test to ensure they have not been chemically treated or lost their ability to sprout. The most direct method is the paper towel test: place ten beans on a damp paper towel, roll it loosely, and seal it in a plastic bag. Keep the roll in a warm location for five to seven days, then count the sprouted seeds to determine the germination rate.
A faster, though less precise, method is the water float test. Submerge the beans in water for about 15 minutes; viable, dense seeds will sink, while non-viable or damaged seeds often float. Immediately before planting, soak the viable beans in water for eight to twelve hours to accelerate germination. Avoid soaking for longer than 24 hours, as this can cause the seeds to rot or split.
Planting Timing and Soil Requirements
Black-eyed peas are sensitive to cold and should only be planted once all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. The ideal soil temperature is consistently above 60°F; temperatures between 75°F and 95°F ensure the fastest germination. Planting in cool, damp soil can lead to rot and poor germination rates.
Locate a spot that receives full sunlight, ideally eight hours or more daily, for a robust harvest. The soil should be well-draining, leaning toward a sandy or loamy texture, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. Since these legumes naturally fix nitrogen, they require minimal added fertilizer. Sow the pre-soaked beans one to two inches deep and space them three to six inches apart within the row.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
The plants require consistent moisture, especially during the flowering and pod formation stages. While they tolerate some drought, they do not tolerate soggy conditions, so the soil must remain moist but never waterlogged. When watering, aim directly at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry, which helps prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
Many black-eyed pea varieties exhibit vining habits, requiring support such as a trellis, stake, or fence. Install this structure at the time of planting to prevent later root disturbance. Monitor the plants for common pests, including aphids and bean beetles, which can be managed with treatments like neem oil or diatomaceous earth. Additional nitrogen fertilizer is generally unnecessary and can promote excessive leafy growth at the expense of pea production.
Harvesting and Curing the Peas
Black-eyed peas offer a dual-harvest opportunity, allowing them to be picked as young, edible pods or as mature, dried beans. For “snaps,” or fresh green pods, harvest them about 60 days after germination when the pods are tender and the seeds have not yet fully swelled. Continuously picking the young pods encourages the plant to produce more flowers and pods.
To harvest dried beans, allow the pods to remain on the vine until they turn yellow, then brown, and become brittle. A dry pod will often rattle when shaken, indicating the peas inside are fully mature and hard. Once the pods are completely dry, shell the peas and spread them in a single layer in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area for a few extra days to ensure they are fully cured. Properly dried peas can then be stored long-term in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain quality and prevent pest infestation.