Sweet Pea, Spencer Giant Mix Value Size Seeds Lathyrus odoratus

Sweet Peas should be sown directly into the garden when the soil is warm and all danger of frost is past. Soil temperature (not air temperature) should be warmer than 13°C (55°F) for seeds to germinate. Planting at a lower temperature will delay germination. As the seedcoats are hard, nick them with a sharp knife, or nail clippers, being careful not to damage the embryo inside and soak them overnight (but not longer) in room temperature water before planting to hasten germination. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Space seeds and plant to the depth indicated below. Press seeds into the soil to ensure good contact and cover with 1.3 cm (1/2") of soil. After planting, water seeds with a gentle mist or shower. It is critical to keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy during germination. When your seedlings reach a height of a few centimetres (inches) and have developed 2 or 3 pairs of leaves, it is important to thin them out, according to the plant spacing indicated below. Do not allow the soil to become dry, as young plants have underdeveloped roots and can quickly dehydrate, particularly in windy conditions.

• Planting Depth: 1.3 cm (1/2")
• Seed Spacing: 5 cm (2")
• Plant Spacing: 10 cm (4")
• Instructions for Nutrient Care: Feed plants SUPERthrive once per week. Mix 1.2 ml (1/4 tsp) per 4L (1 gallon) of water in a watering can and apply solution to the base of the plants.

• Sweet Peas generally thrive in cool weather and flourish in locations that receive full sun.
• Pinching back the early flower buds will help your plants to promote more branches and grow bushier. Wait until the plant is 10 cm (4") tall, pinch off the tips to encourage bushy growth.
• Due to their height, a trellis is highly recommended. The planting area should be prepared and a trellis erected before planting seeds. Tie vines to the trellis to produce straight stems.
• Sweet peas love water, and without consistent moisture, they will not thrive. Try to water plants at the base of the plant rather than overhead. Dampness on foliage can cause disease.
• To prolong blooming, you must keep plants from setting seed, so be sure to harvest and deadhead the flowers frequently. For the longest vase life, pick stems that have at least 2 unopened flowers at the tip. While they can be picked when more open, their vase life won’t be as long.