Sweet peas need well-draining soil amended with plenty of compost and organic matter. Work compost and aged manure into a depth of at least 1 foot. Sweet peas prefer soil a bit on the alkaline side; amend with lime if soil is acidic.
In most areas, choose a location in full sun. If your summers are very hot such as in Arizona, choose a location that gets morning sun and some afternoon shade.
Plant seeds 1 inch deep, 2-3 inches apart. Thin to about 5 inches apart when seedlings are 2-3 inches tall.
For square foot gardening plant 4 sweet peas per square.
Bec
Thursday 3rd of November 2022
Thank you for this! My garden is all containers -- curious about how many plants were in the container with the obelisk you have photos of? Trying to figure out how many I'll need to start.
Bec
Monday 7th of November 2022
@Angela Judd, Thank you!
Angela Judd
Monday 7th of November 2022
I believe there were 6-8 seeds planted around the perimeter.
Adrianne
Tuesday 26th of October 2021
Hello from San Antonio! I sowed my sweet peas (Spring Sunshine Champagne) over a week ago and some have already started to germinate! Your article's instructions and tips were very helpful. Next year, I want to try the heat tolerant Jewels of Albion from Renee's Garden that you linked above. When should I order them? Next fall or now?
Angela Judd
Tuesday 26th of October 2021
Either way is fine. The seeds last for several years. If you are concerned about supply issues and they are in stock now I would order them now. Glad to year yours are already sprouting! Enjoy!
Maryanne
Monday 11th of October 2021
I refer to your site ALL THE TIME .Thank you thank you . If I plant my sweet peas now, how long will they bloom. I’m just planning on where to plant for the longest display of pretty blooms,
Angela Judd
Wednesday 13th of October 2021
Typically begin blooming in February and blooms in shady areas may last until May - sunnier spots won't last as long.
Shea
Tuesday 16th of February 2021
Hi Angela! Is it ok to plant sweet peas in the garden where snap peas will also be growing? Is there any danger of cross pollination?
Alicia
Thursday 26th of January 2023
@Angela Judd, How far apart would they need to be to save seeds? I’m wondering if I can plant sweet peas out front and snap peas out back?
Angela Judd
Tuesday 16th of February 2021
Good question. This year they would be fine, but I wouldn't save seeds from either one. The differences would show up in the seeds.