Replace the bean poles with telephone pea poles! This fantastic heirloom pea is a maincrop climbing pea that will reach 6 feet, utilizing vertical space to produce a much larger crop in a smaller area of ground. These climbing peas have been around since the 1880s but have fallen out of favor because they are too difficult to harvest commercially. This ‘Telephone’ Pea, on the other hand, is ideal for the home gardener. Over a long cropping period, it produces masses of large pods, each containing 8–10 sweet and tender peas, and is harvest-ready in about 70 days. Ascend a trellis or wigwam. (Of the wrinkled variety.) 180cm is the maximum height (6 foot). 25cm spread (10″).
Sowing Information
Direct sow peas outdoors from March to June, once the soil as warmed. In mild areas, some hardy, early maturing cultivars may be sown in late autumn for overwintering. Choose a weed-free position on moist, fertile, well drained soil in full sun. Sow pea seed in flat bottomed drills at a distance of 5cm (2″) apart, and 4cm (1½”) deep. Allow a distance of 75cm (30″) between rows. For successional crops, sow peas every 10 days.
