Peas are a cool-weather crop, often marking the beginning of the gardening season. Success in Missouri relies on precise timing, as the climate transitions rapidly from cool spring conditions to summer heat. Since peas stop producing flowers and pods once temperatures consistently exceed 80°F, gardeners must plant early to ensure the crop matures before the heat arrives. This tight window determines the difference between a bountiful harvest and a failed planting.
Optimal Spring Planting Schedule
The primary window for planting peas opens as soon as the soil is workable, ranging from late February in southern Missouri to late March or early April in the northern parts of the state. Peas require a minimum soil temperature of 40°F for germination, though temperatures between 50°F and 60°F speed up the emergence process. Since young pea plants tolerate a light frost, there is little risk in planting early, even if a late freeze is forecast.
The goal is to get plants established and producing pods before the high temperatures of late May and June. The most successful strategy involves succession planting, which means sowing a new batch of seeds every two to three weeks. This practice extends the harvest period, ensuring a steady supply of fresh peas rather than one massive flush. Most varieties take between 50 and 70 days to reach maturity, making an early start necessary.
Fall Planting for a Second Harvest
A secondary harvest is possible by planting a fall crop, allowing peas to mature in the cooler conditions of autumn. The ideal timing for fall planting is mid-July through mid-August, depending on the region’s first expected hard frost date. To calculate the final planting date, take the “days to maturity,” add 10 days to account for decreasing daylight, and count backward from the average first hard frost date.
This calculation ensures the pods mature as the weather cools, often resulting in peas with a sweeter flavor and fewer disease issues. Because the ground is warmer in August, it is recommended to plant the seeds slightly deeper than in spring and provide consistent water to help the seedlings survive the initial summer heat.
Essential Preparation and Variety Selection
Peas thrive in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (ideally between 6.0 and 6.5). Before planting, seeds should be sown one to two inches deep and spaced two inches apart within the row. Proper soil preparation, including incorporating organic matter, is more beneficial than adding nitrogen fertilizer, as peas are legumes that naturally fix nitrogen in the soil.
When selecting varieties, gardeners should choose between Shelling (English) peas, Snap peas, and Snow peas. Early-maturing varieties are recommended for the Missouri climate since they are more likely to finish producing before the summer heat arrives. Taller, vining varieties, such as ‘Green Arrow’ or ‘Lincoln,’ require a support structure, like a trellis or netting, to prevent sprawling and improve air circulation, which reduces the risk of fungal diseases.