Peas and beans are some of the easiest and most rewarding vegetables to grow in your garden, whether in a garden or containers. Not only do they thrive in various settings, but there’s nothing quite like harvesting fresh peas and beans straight from the vine. The best part is that peas and beans are quick growers, with most varieties maturing between 60 to 90 days and some even faster.
Varieties of Peas and Beans
Dwarf Varieties
Dwarf peas and beans are perfect for smaller spaces like pots or containers, making them ideal for small gardens or balconies. These compact plants still produce a significant yield and are easy to manage.
Dwarf Peas
Massey: A popular dwarf pea that doesn’t require staking and matures in 65 days. This variety is known for its prolific crop, making it a great choice for small gardens.
Dwarf Beans:
Dwarf Baby Bush: This tiny bean variety grows only 300 mm tall but still produces 100 mm pods, making it perfect for containers.
Dwarf Yellow Butter: Known for its delicious yellow beans with a melt-in-the-mouth texture.
Dwarf Tendergreen: A stringless, tender variety favourite among many gardeners.
Climbing Varieties
Climbing peas and beans are well-suited for those with more space who want to maximise their harvest. These vigorous plants can produce abundant crops; some even have vibrant colours like purple and red.
Support Structure
Use an obelisk or any other vertical structure to help the beans and peas grow upwards. This saves space and adds an attractive feature to your garden or pots. Once the plants start climbing, they will naturally wrap around the frame, making it easy to grow them without too much intervention.
Growing Tips for Success
Soil Preparation
Before planting, ensure the soil is well-prepared. Dig in a good amount of Oderings Shrub & Tub to enrich the soil with nutrients that support strong plant growth.
Support Structures
For climbing beans and peas, set up your framework before planting. Beans and peas will naturally climb the structure, but ensure it is low enough for the plants to start.
Feeding
Feed your plants halfway through the growing season with Oderings Total Replenish or a good general-purpose fertiliser to ensure continued growth and high yields.
Watering
Regular watering is important, especially in dry spells. However, ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging, which can harm the plants.
Fun for Kids
Peas and beans are excellent vegetables to grow with children, as they provide quick results and are easy to manage. For a fun and rewarding experience, try growing Sugar Snap peas or Snow peas. These sweet, juicy peas can be eaten whole, pod and all, making them perfect for snacking or adding to stir-fries.
Whether you choose dwarf or climbing varieties, peas and beans are essential in any garden. They’re easy to grow, quick to mature, and offer delicious rewards. You can enjoy fresh, homegrown peas and beans throughout the growing season with the right care and attention.
