Sweet pea 'Pandemonium' Lathyrus odoratus 'Pandemonium'

Water

Sweet peas, including Lathyrus odoratus 'Pandemonium', should be watered once the top inch of the soil feels dry. Typically, this means providing approximately 1 gallon of water per plant every week, but this can vary depending on climate conditions and the plant's stage of growth. During hot or windy conditions, they may require more frequent watering. It’s best to water early in the morning, using a watering can or hose to soak the soil at the base of the plant, avoiding the foliage to reduce the risk of mildew. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Light

Sweet peas require full sun to bloom prolifically, meaning they should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Choose a spot in the garden where they are exposed to morning light and protected from the intense afternoon sun if you're in a particularly hot climate. However, in cooler regions, a position where they can bask in sunlight throughout the day is ideal.

Temperature

Sweet peas thrive in cooler temperatures and are best grown in early spring when daytime temperatures are between 55°F and 65°F. They can tolerate a light frost and can be planted as soon as the soil can be worked, which may be when temperatures are still hovering around 40°F. However, they will start to falter when temperatures consistently rise above 75°F, and they usually do not survive in extreme heat.

Pruning

Pruning sweet peas encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch off the tips of the plant when they are 4-6 inches tall to encourage side shoots. Deadhead regularly to prevent the plant from going to seed, which will prolong the flowering season. The best time for larger pruning tasks, such as cutting back spent plants, is after the flowering has ceased or as needed to maintain shape and health.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Sweet peas prefer rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A good mix can be created using equal parts garden soil, compost, and well-rotted manure to provide nutrients and enhance the soil structure. Perlite or vermiculite can be added to ensure good drainage.

Repotting

Sweet peas, being usually grown as annuals, do not typically require repotting. They are sown directly where they are to flower or started in pots before being transplanted outdoors once the risk of frost has passed.

Humidity & Misting

Sweet peas thrive best in moderate humidity conditions. While they can tolerate a range from low to high humidity, it's important to ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases, especially in areas with high humidity.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Use sunny spot, fertile soil, and provide support for climbing.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, fertile soil, support required for vines.

• Hardiness zone

  2-11 USDA

Life cycle

Lathyrus odoratus 'Pandemonium', commonly known as sweet pea 'Pandemonium', begins its life as a seed planted in well-drained soil, typically in spring after the last frost. Upon germination, a small seedling emerges, developing a root system and a pair of true leaves, which will evolve into a climbing or trailing vine. As the plant matures, it produces more leaves and tendrils that help it to climb and support itself on structures or supports. The growth stage is marked by rapid vegetative expansion as the plant prepares to flower. The flowering stage occurs when the plant produces colorful, fragrant blossoms that are often used in bouquets and garden displays; this typically happens in late spring to early summer. After flowering, seed pods develop, which eventually dry and release seeds, completing the cycle and allowing for propagation if the seeds are collected and sown in the following season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• The most popular method of propagating Sweet Pea 'Pandemonium' is by sowing seeds. The ideal time to start propagation by seeds is in late winter or early spring, to allow the plant to establish itself before the warm weather encourages flowering. Seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the hard outer shell and encourage germination. After soaking, plant them about 1 inch deep in well-draining soil and space them about 2 to 3 inches apart. It's important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and within 10-14 days, seeds typically begin to sprout. Once they're large enough to handle and after the threat of frost has passed, seedlings can be transplanted outdoors to a sunny location with rich, well-draining soil.