Washington’s maritime climate allows peas to go in the ground from March through May for continuous harvest. Finding the best time to plant peas in washington depends on your specific region, from the cool coastal areas to the warmer inland valleys.
Peas thrive in cool weather and can handle light frosts, making them one of the first crops you can plant each spring. The key is to get them in early enough so they mature before summer heat arrives.
Best Time To Plant Peas In Washington
The best time to plant peas in washington varies by location, but generally falls between early March and mid-May. Western Washington, with its milder winters, allows for earlier planting. Eastern Washington, with colder springs, requires a later start.
Here is a quick breakdown by region:
- Western Washington (coastal, Puget Sound): March 1 to April 15
- Eastern Washington (inland, Spokane area): April 1 to May 15
- Higher elevations (Cascades, Olympics): May 1 to June 1
These dates are guidelines. Always check your local frost dates and soil temperature before planting.
Why Timing Matters For Peas
Peas are cool-season crops. They germinate best when soil temperatures are between 45°F and 70°F. If you plant too late, the heat will stress the plants and reduce pod production.
Planting too early, when the ground is still frozen or waterlogged, can cause seeds to rot. The ideal window gives peas time to grow before summer heat sets in.
Soil Temperature Requirements
Peas need soil that is at least 40°F for germination. For best results, wait until the soil reaches 45°F to 50°F. You can check soil temperature with a simple thermometer inserted 2 inches deep.
In Washington, soil warms up slower in shaded areas or heavy clay soils. Raised beds and south-facing slopes warm up faster, allowing for earlier planting.
Regional Planting Guides For Washington
Western Washington
Western Washington includes the Puget Sound region, Olympic Peninsula, and coastal areas. Winters are mild, and springs are cool and wet. This allows for early planting.
- Start planting peas as early as March 1 in well-drained soil
- Continue planting every 2-3 weeks until mid-May for a continuous harvest
- Use raised beds or mounds to improve drainage in heavy rain
Popular varieties for this region include ‘Oregon Sugar Pod II’, ‘Wando’, and ‘Lincoln’. These tolerate cool, wet conditions well.
Eastern Washington
Eastern Washington has colder winters and hotter summers. Springs are shorter, so timing is more critical. Wait until the soil has thawed and dried out enough to work.
- Plant between April 1 and May 15, after the last hard frost
- Use row covers or cloches to protect seedlings from late frosts
- Choose early-maturing varieties like ‘Early Frosty’ or ‘Sugar Ann’
In areas like Spokane or the Columbia Basin, peas should be harvested by late June or early July before temperatures exceed 80°F.
Higher Elevations And Mountain Areas
In the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges, growing seasons are short. Snow can linger into May. Peas must be planted as soon as the ground is workable.
- Plant from May 1 to June 1, depending on snowmelt
- Use fast-maturing varieties that produce in 55-60 days
- Consider a fall planting for a second crop if summer heat is mild
Varieties like ‘Alaska’ or ‘Meteor’ are good choices for short seasons.
How To Plant Peas For Success
Preparing The Soil
Peas prefer well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. They do not need heavy fertilization because they fix their own nitrogen. Too much nitrogen will produce lots of leaves but few pods.
- Clear the area of weeds and debris
- Loosen the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches
- Mix in a thin layer of compost or aged manure
- Rake the bed smooth
Avoid adding high-nitrogen fertilizers. Peas are light feeders.
Planting Depth And Spacing
Sow pea seeds 1 inch deep in heavy soil, or 1.5 inches deep in sandy soil. Space seeds 2 inches apart in rows that are 18-24 inches apart. For bush varieties, you can plant in double rows 6 inches apart.
For vining varieties, install a trellis or netting at planting time. This supports the plants and improves air circulation.
Watering And Care
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Peas need about 1 inch of water per week. Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the leaves, which can cause disease.
Once seedlings emerge, thin them to 4-6 inches apart for bush types. For vining types, thin to 3-4 inches apart.
Succession Planting For Continuous Harvest
To enjoy peas all spring, use succession planting. Plant a new batch every 2-3 weeks. This ensures that as one crop finishes, another is ready to pick.
Here is a sample schedule for western Washington:
- First planting: March 1-15
- Second planting: March 20-April 5
- Third planting: April 10-25
- Fourth planting: May 1-15
In eastern Washington, shift the schedule by 3-4 weeks. Start in early April and continue through mid-May.
Choosing The Right Varieties
Different pea varieties have different maturity times. For succession planting, mix early, mid-season, and late varieties.
- Early (55-60 days): ‘Alaska’, ‘Meteor’, ‘Early Frosty’
- Mid-season (60-70 days): ‘Lincoln’, ‘Wando’, ‘Oregon Sugar Pod II’
- Late (70-80 days): ‘Tall Telephone’, ‘Alderman’, ‘Sugar Snap’
Snow peas and snap peas are harvested before the pods fill out. Shelling peas are harvested when pods are plump.
Common Problems And Solutions
Poor Germination
If seeds do not sprout, the soil may be too cold or too wet. Wait until soil reaches 45°F. Improve drainage by planting in raised beds.
Seeds can also rot if planted too deep. Stick to 1 inch depth in heavy soil.
Pests
Aphids, pea weevils, and slugs are common pests in Washington. Use row covers to protect young plants. Hand-pick slugs or use iron phosphate bait.
For aphids, spray with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap. Avoid broad-spectrum pesticides that harm beneficial insects.
Diseases
Powdery mildew and root rot can affect peas. Prevent these by planting in well-drained soil, spacing plants for air circulation, and watering at the base.
Choose disease-resistant varieties like ‘Wando’ or ‘Oregon Giant’. Rotate pea crops every 3-4 years to avoid soil-borne diseases.
Harvesting Peas At The Right Time
Peas are ready to harvest when the pods are bright green and plump. For snow peas, pick when the pods are flat and before seeds swell. For snap peas, pick when pods are crisp and seeds are just visible.
Shelling peas should be harvested when pods are fully filled but still tender. Check daily once flowering begins, as peas mature quickly.
Harvest in the morning when pods are cool and crisp. Use two hands to avoid damaging the vine. Regular picking encourages more pod production.
Storing Fresh Peas
Fresh peas are best eaten immediately. If you need to store them, keep unwashed pods in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator. They will last 3-5 days.
For longer storage, blanch peas for 2 minutes, then freeze in airtight containers. Frozen peas maintain quality for 8-12 months.
Fall Planting For A Second Crop
In mild areas of Washington, you can plant a fall crop of peas. This works best in western Washington where summers are cooler. Plant in late July or early August for a harvest before the first frost.
Choose early-maturing varieties that can handle cooler temperatures. ‘Wando’ and ‘Meteor’ are good choices for fall planting.
Water consistently during dry summer weather. Mulch around the plants to keep the soil cool and moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Plant Peas In Washington In February?
In most of Washington, February is too cold and wet for peas. Only in the warmest microclimates of western Washington can you try planting in late February, but soil temperatures are usually below 40°F. It is safer to wait until March.
What Is The Latest Time To Plant Peas In Washington?
The latest planting time for peas in Washington is mid-May for most areas. In cooler coastal regions, you can plant until early June. After that, summer heat will prevent good pod set.
Do Peas Need Full Sun In Washington?
Peas grow best in full sun, but they can tolerate partial shade in warmer parts of the state. In eastern Washington, some afternoon shade can help protect plants from heat stress.
How Long Do Peas Take To Grow In Washington?
Most pea varieties take 55-75 days from planting to harvest. Early varieties like ‘Alaska’ mature in 55-60 days, while later varieties like ‘Tall Telephone’ take 70-80 days.
Can I Plant Peas In Containers In Washington?
Yes, peas grow well in containers. Use a pot at least 12 inches deep with drainage holes. Choose bush varieties like ‘Little Marvel’ or ‘Sugar Ann’. Place the container in a sunny spot and water regularly.
Final Tips For Washington Pea Growers
Start with a soil test to know your pH and nutrient levels. Peas prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil. Add lime if pH is below 6.0.
Use row covers to protect seedlings from birds and frost. Remove covers when flowers appear to allow pollination.
Water consistently, especially during flowering and pod development. Inconsistent watering can cause pods to be tough or misshapen.
Rotate your pea crop to a different bed each year. This prevents soil-borne diseases and pest buildup.
Keep a garden journal to track planting dates, weather, and harvest times. This will help you refine your timing for future seasons.
With the right timing and care, you can enjoy fresh peas from your Washington garden from late spring through early summer. The best time to plant peas in washington is when the soil is workable and temperatures are cool. Plan ahead, choose the right varieties, and you will have a bountiful harvest.