Sweet pea Lathyrus odoratus 'Sunset'

Water

Sweet peas require consistent moisture to thrive, so it's important to water them regularly. During the growing season, water them once a week with about one gallon of water per plant, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. This may need to increase to twice a week during periods of high heat or dry weather. If the plants are in containers, they may require more frequent watering, as soil in pots tends to dry out faster. It's best to water early in the morning, at the base of the plants, to allow the foliage to dry out during the day and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Light

Sweet peas perform best in full sun, meaning they should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. They can tolerate partial shade, but flowering may be reduced. The ideal spot for planting is in a location where they are exposed to morning sun and can be protected from the intense heat of the afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates.

Temperature

Sweet peas prefer cooler temperatures and grow best when daytime temperatures are between 55°F and 65°F. They can survive minimum temperatures down to 25°F, but frost can damage the plants, so it's important to provide protection if freezing temperatures are expected. Sweet peas can handle maximum temperatures up to 75°F, but prolonged heat may lead to reduced flowering or plant stress.

Pruning

Pruning sweet peas is mainly done to promote bushier growth and to encourage more blooms. Regularly deadheading, or removing spent flowers, will stimulate the plant to produce more flowers. Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season to remove yellowing leaves and to maintain plant shape. The best time for more significant pruning or cutting back is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Sweet pea 'Sunset' thrives in rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The best soil mix should incorporate plenty of organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to provide nutrients. A mixture of one part loam, one part peat or coir, and one part sharp sand or perlite can create an ideal growing environment for sweet peas.

Repotting

Sweet pea 'Sunset' does not typically require repotting as it is often grown as an annual. Planting seeds or seedlings in the garden each year is customary. However, if starting sweet peas indoors, transplant them into the garden as soon as they are established and after the danger of frost has passed.

Humidity & Misting

Sweet pea 'Sunset' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to a range of conditions. It does not fare well in overly dry environments, so in particularly dry climates, it may benefit from occasional misting or the placement of a water tray nearby to increase humidity indirectly.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light, cool temperatures, and trellis support.

• Outdoor

  Choose sunny spot, ensure rich soil, provide support for climbing.

• Hardiness zone

  2-11 USDA

Life cycle

Lathyrus odoratus 'Sunset', commonly known as Sweet Pea, begins its life as a seed, which when sown in well-drained soil and given ample sunlight, will germinate within 7 to 15 days. The seedling then develops into a young plant, establishing a root system and producing pairs of leaves on climbing vines that can reach up to 6 feet with proper support. As it matures, the Sweet Pea plant produces distinctive, fragrant flowers in a variety of hues from late spring to summer, depending on the climate and conditions. Following pollination, typically by bees and other insects attracted to the flowers' scent and color, the plant forms seed pods. These pods mature on the plant, eventually drying and releasing seeds, which can be collected for next season's planting or left to self-sow. Finally, as an annual plant, the Sweet Pea dies after seed production, completing its life cycle within one growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• The most popular method of propagation for Lathyrus odoratus, commonly known as Sweet Pea 'Sunset', is by seed. Sweet Peas are generally sown directly into the ground where they are to flower. The best time for sowing in cooler climates is the early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, or in the autumn where winters are mild. Prior to sowing, it's beneficial to soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to soften the hard seed coat and promote germination. Seeds should be sown about 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep and spaced about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.6 cm) apart. Seedlings usually emerge in 10 to 14 days. Ensure that the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged during the germination period.