Sweet pea Lathyrus odoratus 'Chelsea Centenary'

Water

Sweet peas require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. During the growing season, they typically need about 1 inch of water per week, whether through rainfall or manual watering. During particularly hot or dry spells, check the soil moisture more frequently, as the plants may need additional water. It's best to water deeply once a week, providing several gallons of water to soak the soil around the roots thoroughly, rather than shallow and frequent watering.

Light

Sweet peas thrive in full sun, meaning they prefer at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The best spot for planting is an area that receives plenty of morning sunlight, which is less intense than the afternoon sun, reducing the risk of overheating and stress on the plants. However, in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent heat stress.

Temperature

Sweet peas prefer cooler temperatures, with ideal conditions ranging between 55°F and 65°F. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 25°F, making them suitable for early spring planting, and can survive up to around 75°F before they start showing signs of stress. To ensure vigorous growth and flowering, it's important to plant them in a location where they can enjoy the cooler part of the growing season before summer heat sets in.

Pruning

Pruning sweet peas is essential for promoting robust growth and abundant blooms. Pinch off the tips when plants are 4-6 inches tall to encourage bushy growth. Regularly deadhead spent flowers to stimulate more blooms. The best time for major pruning and cutting back is after the blooming season has ended, which is typically late summer or early fall, depending on your climate.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Sweet peas, including Lathyrus odoratus 'Chelsea Centenary', thrive best in rich, well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. A preferable soil mix would include one part garden soil, one part well-rotted compost or manure, and one part sharp sand to ensure proper drainage.

Repotting

Sweet peas like Lathyrus odoratus 'Chelsea Centenary' are generally not repotted as they are annuals and will complete their life cycle within one growing season. However, if started indoors, they should be transplanted outdoors after the risk of frost has passed.

Humidity & Misting

Sweet peas such as Lathyrus odoratus 'Chelsea Centenary' prefer moderate humidity levels. They do not require high humidity environments and can tolerate the natural humidity levels found outdoors in temperate climates.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide full sun, support for climbing, and well-draining soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, train on support, and ensure rich soil.

• Hardiness zone

  2-11 USDA

Life cycle

Lathyrus odoratus 'Chelsea Centenary', commonly known as sweet pea, begins its life as a seed that germinates in cool, damp soil in early spring. After sprouting, the seedling develops a climbing stem and compound leaves with tendrils that allow it to grasp onto supports for upward growth. The plant then enters a vegetative stage where it continues to grow stems and leaves, focusing on accumulating energy and increasing its size. Following this period, the sweet pea transitions to the flowering stage, producing fragrant blossoms in a variety of colors that often attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers form seed pods that mature, eventually drying and releasing seeds for the next generation. As an annual plant, the sweet pea completes this cycle within one growing season, after which it dies, relying on the dispersed seeds to propagate future plants.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• Propogation: Lathyrus odoratus, commonly known as Sweet Pea 'Chelsea Centenary', is most commonly propagated through seeds. The best time to sow sweet pea seeds is in late winter to early spring, depending on the local climate and the chance of frost. To propagate the seeds, one should first nick the hard seed coat or soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to enhance germination. After preparing the seeds, plant them about 1 inch deep in a well-draining soil mix and space them 2 to 3 inches apart. The seeds usually germinate within 10 to 21 days when kept at 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit (13 to 18 degrees Celsius), and the seedlings can be thinned out or transplanted when they are a few inches tall. It is important to provide support for the climbing vines as they grow, and regular watering is necessary to establish the young plants.