Erewhon Sweet Pea Lathyrus × hammettii 'Erewhon'

Water

Sweet peas require consistent moisture to thrive, although they do not like to be waterlogged. It is best to water the Erewhon sweet pea deeply once a week with about 1 gallon of water per plant, ensuring the soil is moist but not soggy. During particularly dry or hot weather, increase the frequency to twice a week. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid getting the foliage wet, which can encourage fungal diseases. Adjust the watering schedule based on rainfall, reducing it accordingly to prevent overwatering.

Light

Erewhon sweet peas perform best in full sun to partial shade. They should be placed in a spot where they can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. Avoid overly shady spots as this can hinder flowering and make the plant more susceptible to disease. Morning sun is particularly beneficial as it warms the plant and dries the dew on the leaves, reducing the risk of fungal infections.

Temperature

Sweet peas like Erewhon prefer cooler temperatures and can suffer in excessive heat. They can survive in temperatures as low as 25°F before they are damaged by frost, and as high as 80°F before they stop flowering. The ideal temperature range for growing sweet peas is between 55°F and 65°F. In hotter climates, providing afternoon shade can help protect the plants from heat stress.

Pruning

Pruning Erewhon sweet peas encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch out the growing tip when the plant is 4 to 8 inches tall to promote side shoots. Regularly deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. The best time for major pruning is in late winter or early spring, just before the new growth starts.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Sweet Pea 'Erewhon' thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter such as compost or manure. A balanced soil mix with equal parts garden soil, compost or well-rotted manure, and sharp sand or perlite is ideal. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 to 7.5 to promote healthy growth.

Repotting

Sweet Pea 'Erewhon' does not typically require frequent repotting as it is an annual plant and will complete its life cycle within one growing season. Sow new seeds annually in fresh soil instead.

Humidity & Misting

Sweet Pea 'Erewhon' performs well in average garden humidity levels. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to maintain health but avoid overly dry or highly humid conditions that can encourage disease.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place sweet pea 'Erewhon' near a sunny window and support with trellis.

• Outdoor

  Plant sweet pea 'Erewhon' in sun, provide support for climbing.

• Hardiness zone

  2-11 USDA

Life cycle

The plant Lathyrus × hammettii 'Erewhon', or Sweet Pea 'Erewhon', begins its life cycle when a seed germinates, typically in spring, after experiencing a period of cold stratification which breaks seed dormancy. It then develops into a seedling, establishing a small root system and sprouting its first true leaves. As the plant grows, it becomes a vegetative vine, developing a more extensive root system, climbing tendrils, compound leaves, and a sturdy stem. During the flowering stage, which occurs in late spring to summer, 'Erewhon' produces distinctive bi-colored blooms, usually blue and mauve, which are highly attractive to pollinators. After pollination, the plant sets seed pods that mature, eventually drying and releasing seeds for the next generation. The life cycle can be annual or perennial, depending on the climate; in colder regions, 'Erewhon' is often grown as an annual, while in milder climates, it can persist and regrow each year.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early spring

• Propogation: The Lathyrus × hammettii 'Erewhon', a sweet pea hybrid, is commonly propagated through seed sowing. The ideal time for sowing its seeds is in late winter or early spring, which allows for a longer growing season and blooms in the same year. The most popular method consists of soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours to soften the hard outer coating, enhancing germination. Subsequently, seeds are sown in pots filled with well-draining soil, placed about an inch deep and spaced approximately 2-3 inches apart, ensuring enough room for growth. These pots are then kept in a bright, sheltered location and maintained at a temperature range of about 55-65°F (13-18°C). Germination typically occurs within 10-14 days. Once the seedlings have developed a set of true leaves, they are transplanted to their final outdoors position, ensuring support for their climbing nature.