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How to Grow Pole Pea

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Pole Pea (Pisum sativum)

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Supplies You'll Need

Raised Garden Bed Vegetable Garden Soil Hand Trowel Set Watering Can

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Pisum sativum
Category vegetable
Type Vine
Days to Maturity 70 days
Starting Method Direct Sow

Growing Requirements

Sun

Full Sun to Partial Shade

Water

Regular (1 inch/week)

Spacing

3" apart

Depth

1" deep

Height

4-8 ft

Germination

5-10 days

Ready to Grow Pole Pea?

Find quality seeds from trusted suppliers.

Buy on Amazon True Leaf Market

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Seed Saving Guide

Easy
Open-pollinated — seeds grow true to parent

When to Harvest Seed

Let pods dry and rattle on the vine before harvesting for seed.

Processing

Shell dried pods, spread seeds to dry 1–2 weeks before storing.

Seed Viability

Up to 3 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.

Pro Tip

Self-pollinating before flowers open — very reliable for pure seed saving.

Seed Storage Supplies

Seed Envelopes Mylar Storage Bags Silica Gel Packets Seed Organizer

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Raised Bed Planting Guides

A 4×8 bed fits 16 per sq ft of Pole Pea. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →

Pole Pea Planting Calendar by Zone

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Pole Pea Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Pole Pea? +

Sow Pole Pea seeds directly in the garden 6 weeks before your last frost date. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

How long does Pole Pea take to grow? +

Pole Pea typically matures in about 70 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Pole Pea indoors or direct sow? +

Pole Pea does best when direct sown outdoors. Plant seeds directly in the garden at the appropriate time based on your local frost dates.

How much sun does Pole Pea need? +

Pole Pea requires full sun to partial shade to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Pole Pea? +

Space Pole Pea plants 3 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Pole Pea need? +

Pole Pea has regular (1 inch/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Pole Pea? +

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Pole Pea is rated easy. Let pods dry and rattle on the vine before harvesting for seed. Shell dried pods, spread seeds to dry 1–2 weeks before storing.

How long do Pole Pea seeds last in storage? +

Properly dried and stored Pole Pea seeds remain viable for up to 3 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Are Pole Pea seeds open-pollinated? +

Yes — Pole Pea is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.

About Pole Pea

Climbing pea that produces over a longer season than bush types. Requires strong trellis support 4-6 feet tall. Fixes nitrogen. Direct sow in early spring.

Expect your Pole Pea to be ready for harvest in approximately 70 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.