If you're a newbie to growing peas, consider giving them a trellis for support. A trellis is a vertical structure that provides climbing plants like peas with the space they need to grow, more exposure to sunlight, and better air circulation. While not all pea varieties require trellises, providing support for their vines can greatly impact their growth. It's recommended to set up your trellis before planting your peas, so start by constructing the trellis first. TikTok user @makinghomematter offers helpful tips on creating a pea trellis using items you may already have on hand, making it a cost-effective solution. Simply build the frame, attach a string, and plant your peas around it to give them the support they need to thrive.
Discover the Two Styles of Peas: Bush and Climbing
When it comes to peas, there are typically two styles to choose from: bush peas and climbing peas. Bush peas are known to grow to a height of around 3 feet, while climbing peas can reach impressive heights of about 8 feet. Both types of peas thrive when given a trellis for support.
For optimal growth, it's recommended to plant your peas in early spring. These plants prefer a cool and moist environment, with a soil temperature above 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, peas require full sun exposure for at least six hours daily and should be shielded from strong winds.
To ensure the health of your pea plants, it's essential to test the pH balance of the soil. Aim for a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5 for optimal growth. Proper drainage is also crucial to keep your peas thriving.
Building Your Pea Trellis
You'll need 1x2-inch pieces of wood, wood screws, nails, a hammer, drill, and garden twine. Cut the wood into four longer pieces with 45-degree angles on one side and connect two of each piece with the drill and screws to create identical triangles for the sides. Then, cut three more pieces of wood and attach them horizontally between the triangles — one on top and two on the bottom. Next, cover your trellis with your preferred stain. The TikToker went for a dark wood stain, but there are plenty of unique wood finishes to use around your house.
Pairing other plants with your peas
Consider adding a few companion plants that will totally flourish beside your luscious peas. Great options are turnips, tomatoes, radishes, and spinach because they can naturally exchange nutrients to benefit the other's growth cycle. For example, peas release nitrogen into the soil, making it an ideal space for many plants that need lots of this nutrient. Further, now that your new trellis is built, repurposing it for other plants is a sustainable option that will aid your green thumb. Some notable plants to consider are beans, melons, and spinach. Cucumbers also thrive with a trellis. A great idea if you don't want a busy garden is to grow your peas and then plant your cucumbers in the same soil, as peas can ready the soil for this next crop. Keep in mind that when you grow cucumbers on a trellis, it may be best to add another trellis to ensure it has plenty of space to vine all over the place.
If you're looking to provide some shade for your plants that prefer not to be in direct sunlight, consider using your trellis as a multi-purpose solution. In a popular TikTok video, the user demonstrates how they strategically place their lettuce plants underneath the middle of the trellis to shield them from the harsh sun. This technique can also be beneficial for other plants like broccoli and cilantro. Not only does the trellis offer shade, but it can also assist your seedlings in standing upright.
