Sweet pea 'Charlie Bear' Lathyrus odoratus 'Charlie Bear'

Water

Sweet pea 'Charlie Bear' requires consistent moisture, so water deeply once a week with about 1 gallon of water per plant, ensuring it reaches the roots. During times of drought or extreme heat, increase the frequency to twice per week. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases, instead aiming the water at the base of the plant. Always check the soil before watering; it should be moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering as temperatures drop in the fall to prevent root rot.

Light

Sweet pea 'Charlie Bear' thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal spot is south-facing, free from shadows cast by buildings or trees. Dappled light is acceptable in the hottest part of the day, but too little sun can lead to poor flowering and leggy growth.

Temperature

Sweet pea 'Charlie Bear' prefers moderate temperatures, thriving in conditions between 55°F and 65°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to 30°F but frost can significantly harm the plant. During hot summer months when temperatures exceed 80°F, growth and flowering may slow down.

Pruning

Prune sweet pea 'Charlie Bear' to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming. The best time for pruning is mid- to late-spring, just as new growth becomes evident. Light pruning can also be done throughout the blooming season to maintain plant shape.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Sweet Pea 'Charlie Bear' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH ranging from neutral to slightly alkaline, around 6.5 to 7.5. A best soil mix for this plant would contain equal parts of loam, compost, and perlite to ensure good drainage and fertility. Adding bone meal can encourage strong root development.

Repotting

Sweet Pea 'Charlie Bear' generally does not need frequent repotting as it is often grown as an annual. However, if grown as a perennial, repot it every year or two in the spring before new growth starts to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.

Humidity & Misting

Sweet Pea 'Charlie Bear' prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. Aim for a humidity level of about 40-50%, which is typical of many outdoor environments and within the range of average indoor conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow Sweet Pea 'Charlie Bear' in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures.

• Outdoor

  Plant Sweet Pea 'Charlie Bear' in full sun and fertile, well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  2-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Lathyrus odoratus 'Charlie Bear', commonly known as Sweet Pea 'Charlie Bear', begins with seed germination, typically in the early spring after the last frost, or in autumn if winter temperatures are not too severe. Following germination, the seedling emerges and develops a root system, along with its initial true leaves. As it grows, the vine-like plant requires support to climb, which it achieves through the use of tendrils, eventually reaching maturity with strong stems that bear compound leaves. Throughout late spring and summer, it undergoes a flowering stage, where it produces fragrant flowers in a range of colors that are attractive to pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed pods, containing several seeds that mature by late summer or early fall. The plant then completes its annual life cycle, typically dying back after seed maturation, with seeds falling to the ground or being collected for next season's planting.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Lathyrus odoratus 'Charlie Bear', commonly known as sweet pea 'Charlie Bear', is typically propagated through its seeds. The best time to sow sweet pea seeds is in late winter to early spring. You can soak the seeds for 24 hours before planting to soften the seed coat and promote germination. After soaking, plant the seeds about 1 inch (2.54 cm) deep in well-draining soil and space them about 2 to 3 inches (5.08 to 7.62 cm) apart. Ensure they are in a sunny position and keep the soil moist until germination, which usually occurs in 7 to 15 days. As the seedlings grow, provide support for them to climb, such as a trellis or netting. Thin out the weakest seedlings to allow the stronger plants enough space to thrive.