Sweet pea 'Solway Sapphire' Lathyrus odoratus 'Solway Sapphire'

Water

Sweet peas, including the 'Solway Sapphire' variety, thrive with consistent moisture. Water them thoroughly once a week, providing about 1-2 inches of water each time, which equates to around 0.6-1.2 gallons per square foot, depending on soil conditions and weather. During dry spells or hot weather, they may need watering twice a week. Avoid overhead watering to prevent disease; instead, aim for a deep watering method at the soil level, that encourages deep root growth and helps plants withstand drought. Let the soil dry out slightly between waterings, but don't allow it to become completely dry.

Light

Sweet peas, such as 'Solway Sapphire', prefer full sun conditions but will tolerate partial shade. They grow best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Place them in a spot where they can enjoy morning sunlight, which is less intense, especially in hotter climates. Full sun exposure is essential for the best flowering performance and robust growth.

Temperature

Sweet peas, including the 'Solway Sapphire' variety, fare well in cool to moderate temperatures. They prefer an ideal temperature range between 55°F and 65°F. These plants can survive minimum temperatures of about 25°F and maximum temperatures up to 75°F, but prolonged exposure to extremes can damage or kill the plants. For best growth, protect sweet peas from harsh frosts and extreme heat.

Pruning

Harvesting or deadheading flowers from the 'Solway Sapphire' sweet pea encourages more blooms and prevents seed formation, which can decrease flowering. Prune them by cutting the stem above the next bud or leaf to stimulate new growth. The best time for pruning is when the blooms start to fade, which is usually on a weekly basis throughout their blooming period.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Sweet Pea 'Solway Sapphire' thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A good mix would be one part garden soil, one part compost, and one part perlite or sand to improve drainage.

Repotting

Sweet Peas, including 'Solway Sapphire', are annuals and don't typically require repotting as they complete their life cycle in one growing season.

Humidity & Misting

Sweet Pea 'Solway Sapphire' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to common outdoor humidity conditions as long as proper watering is maintained.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, cool temps, and stake for support.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, rich soil, ensure support for climbing.

• Hardiness zone

  2-11 USDA

Life cycle

Sweet pea 'Solway Sapphire' starts its life as a seed, which when sown in fertile, well-drained soil and with adequate warmth, will germinate. Following germination, the seedling emerges, developing a root system and a pair of true leaves as it enters the vegetative stage. As it matures, the plant experiences rapid growth, producing climbing vines and foliage due to its climbing habit. The plant then enters the flowering stage, characterized by the development of fragrant, blue-violet flowers typically in late spring or early summer, which are pollinated by insects, primarily bees. After pollination, the plant produces pods that contain seeds; when the pods dry and dehisce, the seeds are released into the environment to start a new generation. The plant is usually an annual, completing its life cycle within one growing season and dying after seed production, although in some climates, it may persist as a short-lived perennial.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• Propogation: Sweet pea 'Solway Sapphire' is commonly propagated from seed, and the best time to sow these seeds is in late winter or early spring. To successfully propagate sweet peas from seed, it is often recommended to first soften the hard outer coating of the seeds to encourage germination. This can be achieved by soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours or by lightly nicking the seed coat with a file or knife. After preparation, the seeds should be sown about 1 inch deep (2.54 cm) in well-draining soil and spaced about 2 to 3 inches apart (5 to 7.6 cm). The seeds typically germinate in 10 to 21 days, especially when kept at a temperature of about 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit (13 to 18 degrees Celsius). Once seedlings develop, they can be transplanted outdoors after the risk of frost has passed, ensuring a support structure is available for these climbing plants to thrive.