Peas are a cool-weather legume that thrives in moderate temperatures, typically between 55°F and 65°F. Success in growing this crop in Maryland relies on precise timing to ensure plants mature and produce pods before summer heat stress begins. Temperatures above 80°F cause the vines to dry up and cease production, making the spring planting window very narrow in the mid-Atlantic region.
Optimal Spring Planting Timing in Maryland
The primary planting window begins as soon as the soil is dry enough to be worked. This can be as early as late February in warmer regions, such as the Southern Eastern Shore, though Western Maryland may see slight delays. The most reliable indicator is soil temperature, as peas can germinate when the soil reaches a minimum of 40°F.
Planting is most successful when the soil temperature is consistently between 45°F and 55°F, which often occurs in early to mid-March. Growers often begin planting in early March and continue succession planting until late April to ensure a steady harvest. Delaying planting past early spring increases the risk of flowering during hot weather, significantly reducing yield and pod quality.
Varieties Best Suited for Maryland Climates
Selecting the correct pea cultivar is important in Maryland due to the state’s humidity and summer heat. Gardeners choose from three main types: shelling peas (English peas), snap peas, and snow peas. Shelling peas require removal from their pod, while snap peas and snow peas have edible pods.
Varieties that demonstrate heat tolerance are beneficial to maximize the harvest before summer ends. The ‘Wando’ variety handles warmer conditions better than most standard English peas. ‘Sugar Snap’ is a popular choice for snap peas, and dwarf shelling peas like ‘Little Marvel’ mature quickly. Choosing a cultivar resistant to common wilt and powdery mildew is highly recommended, as these fungal issues are common in humid environments.
Planning for a Fall Pea Harvest
A second opportunity to grow peas exists in the fall, requiring precise planning to avoid the season’s first frost. The goal is timing the planting so pods mature during the mild temperatures of autumn, avoiding the oppressive heat of late summer. Fall planting is less reliable than spring planting because warm August soil can inhibit germination and accelerate the plant’s life cycle too quickly.
To successfully time a fall crop, count backward 8 to 10 weeks from your area’s average first frost date. For most of Maryland, the first frost typically occurs between mid-October and early November, necessitating planting in late August or early September. This calculation ensures plants have sufficient time to flower and produce a crop before a killing frost arrives.
Essential Soil Preparation and Sowing Techniques
Peas require full sun and well-drained soil rich in organic matter to prevent seeds from rotting. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally falling between 6.0 and 7.5 for optimal growth. Before sowing, treat the seeds with a specific inoculant containing Rhizobium leguminosarum bacteria.
This inoculant is readily available at garden centers and helps the pea plant fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, promoting healthier growth. Seeds should be planted about one inch deep and spaced 1 to 3 inches apart within the row. Vining varieties, which can grow over 5 feet tall, require a support structure, such as a trellis or netting, installed at the time of planting.