Purple hull peas, a nutritious and flavorful legume, offer a rewarding experience. These versatile plants are well-suited for container growing, making them ideal for limited space, urban settings, or mobile gardening. Container cultivation provides easy access and fresh produce.
Getting Started with Container Growing
Selecting the appropriate container is an important first step. Choose a pot with a minimum depth of 8 to 12 inches and a diameter of at least 10 to 14 inches. Containers can be made from plastic, terracotta, or fabric grow bags, but they must have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
A high-quality potting mix is essential for aeration and drainage. Opt for a well-draining mix rich in organic matter, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Garden soil is unsuitable for containers because it compacts easily, hindering root growth and drainage.
Before planting, soak purple hull pea seeds in water for 4 to 6 hours or overnight to encourage faster germination. Plant seeds about 1 inch deep and space them approximately 3 to 4 inches apart. After planting, water the soil thoroughly to settle the seeds.
Ongoing Care for Container-Grown Peas
Purple hull peas thrive in ample sunlight, requiring 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily. Place containers in the sunniest outdoor spot and rotate them periodically for adequate light. Consistent watering is important, as container peas dry out faster than those in garden beds. Check soil moisture regularly; if the top inch feels dry, water until it drains from the bottom. Avoid overwatering (root rot) and underwatering (plant stress).
Purple hull peas are legumes and fix nitrogen, reducing their need for heavy fertilization. A light application of a low-nitrogen fertilizer, such as a 5-10-10 blend, is beneficial after the first true leaves appear and then every three to four weeks. Too much nitrogen can encourage leafy growth at the expense of pod production.
Many varieties are vining or semi-vining, necessitating support. Install a trellis, stakes, or a cage at planting or shortly after germination. Plants can reach 2 to 6 feet, depending on variety.
Monitoring for common pests like aphids is important. Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can stunt growth. Organic solutions like a strong water spray or insecticidal soap/neem oil can manage infestations. Good air circulation also helps prevent fungal issues.
Harvesting Purple Hull Peas
Harvesting purple hull peas at the right time ensures best flavor and texture. Pods are ready when full, plump, and slightly firm, often showing a distinctive purple blush or turning completely purple. Harvesting too early results in difficult-to-shell pods; waiting too long leads to overly mature, dry peas. Most varieties mature in 55 to 70 days.
To harvest, gently pull or snap pods from the plant near the stem. Regular harvesting encourages more pods, extending yield. Container plants can provide a continuous harvest for about 4 to 6 weeks. For immediate use, shell and refrigerate peas in an airtight container for a few days. For longer storage, blanch shelled peas in boiling water for two minutes, then ice bath, to preserve flavor and texture before freezing.