Sweet Pea Painted Lady – Growing Instructions
- Plant sweet pea seeds in the spring, 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost
- Alternatively, plant in the autumn for stronger and earlier flowering plants.
- Soak the seeds in water for 12-24 hours before planting to improve germination.
- Sow the seeds 2 cm deep in pots or root trainers, as sweet peas require space for their long roots to grow properly.
- Water the seeds lightly after sowing. Wait until the seedlings have sprouted through the soil before watering again.
- Once the seedlings appear, move them to a cool location around 5°C. This cooler temperature will encourage root 12growth over stem growth.
- When the plant has produced 4 pairs of leaves or reached 10-15 cm tall, pinch out the central growing tip and leave around 2 leaf nodes. This will stimulate the plant to produce more side shoots.
- After the risk of frost has passed, transplant the seedlings to their final growing position.
- Space the plants 15-30 cm apart or plant two seedlings per vertical support structure.
- As the plants begin to grow, tie them to the support frame to help strengthen the stems.
Caution: Sweet pea seeds are poisonous if ingested.
