If you’re wondering when to plant purple hull peas in Texas, you’ve come to the right place. Getting the timing right is the single most important factor for a bountiful harvest of this Southern favorite. This guide will walk you through the optimal planting seasons for different Texas regions, ensuring your peas thrive in the Lone Star State’s unique climate.
When to Plant Purple Hull Peas in Texas
The best time to plant purple hull peas in Texas is from late March through mid-July. However, Texas is a huge state with multiple climate zones, so the ideal window shifts depending on where you live. The key is to plant after the last spring frost when soil temperatures have reliably warmed to at least 65°F.
Regional Planting Windows for Texas
Texas can be divided into three broad gardening regions. Here’s when you should get your seeds in the ground.
North Texas (Dallas, Fort Worth, Lubbock)
Spring planting can begin in early to mid-April. Wait until all danger of frost has passed, which is typically around April 1st, but watch the forecast. You can make successive plantings every two to three weeks until early July. The soil needs to be nice and warm for good germination.
Central Texas (Austin, San Antonio, Waco)
You can start a bit earlier here. Aim for late March to early April for your first sowing. The last frost date is usually in mid-March. Continue planting through late July for a extended harvest. The long, hot summers here are perfect for purple hull peas.
South Texas & Gulf Coast (Houston, Corpus Christi, Rio Grande Valley)
This region has the longest growing season. You can often plant as early as late February or early March. Fall planting is also a fantastic option here; plant in late August or early September for a second harvest before the first light frost. The peas love the coastal humidity.
Why Soil Temperature Matters More Than the Calendar
Purple hull peas are warm-season legumes. They will not perform well in cool soil. Using a soil thermometer is the best way to know for sure. If the soil at planting depth is below 65°F, seeds will rot or germinate very poorly. Waiting an extra week for warm soil is better than rushing.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Follow these simple steps for success from the very start.
- Choose the Right Location: Select a spot that gets full sun, at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Good drainage is critical.
- Prepare the Soil: These peas don’t need rich soil, but they do prefer a neutral pH. Work in some compost to improve texture. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they promote leaves instead of pods.
- Plant the Seeds: Sow seeds 1 inch deep and 4 to 6 inches apart in rows that are 3 feet apart. You can also plant in wide rows or blocks. Water the area gently but thoroughly after planting.
- Initial Care: Keep the soil moist but not soggy until seedlings emerge, which takes 7-14 days. Once established, the plants are quite drought-tolerant.
Tips for a Continuous Harvest
To enjoy peas all season long, don’t plant all your seeds at once. Use a technique called succession planting.
- Make a new planting every two to three weeks from your start date until about 8-10 weeks before your first average fall frost date.
- This staggers the maturity times, so you’ll have a steady supply rather than one giant, overwhelming harvest.
- Try different varieties with varying “days to maturity” for the same effect.
Common Problems and Solutions
Even with perfect timing, you might face a few challenges. Here’s how to handle them.
Pests
- Aphids: Blast them off with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Cowpea Curculio: This is a major pest for Southern peas. The best defense is to plant early in the season and harvest promptly. Rotating your pea patch location each year helps too.
- Rabbits & Deer: Use fencing or netting if these visitors become a problem in your garden.
Diseases
- Root Rot: Caused by soggy, poorly drained soil. Ensure your planting bed drains well.
- Fungal Leaf Spots: Avoid overhead watering to keep leaves dry. Provide good air circulation by not overcrowding plants.
When and How to Harvest
Your harvest time depends on the variety, but most purple hull peas are ready 60 to 70 days after planting. Here’s what to look for:
- For fresh shelling peas, harvest when the pods are well-filled but still bright green or showing a hint of purple. The pods should feel firm.
- For dried peas, let the pods dry completely on the vine until they are brown and brittle.
- Pick regularly to encourage the plant to produce more pods. If you let old pods stay on, production will slow down.
FAQ Section
Can you plant purple hull peas in the fall in Texas?
Yes, in many parts of Texas! In South and Central Texas, plant in late summer (late August to early September) for a fall harvest. In North Texas, the fall window is very short and risky due to early frosts.
What month do you plant purple hull peas?
The primary planting month is April for most of Texas. In South Texas, March is common, and in all regions, you can continue planting through June and even into July for late harvests.
How late can you plant purple hull peas?
You can plant until about 60-70 days before your first expected fall frost. For Central Texas, that’s often mid-July. For a fall crop in Houston, you might plant as late as early September. Check your local frost dates for the best guidance.
Do purple hull peas need a trellis?
Most common varieties are bush-types and do not need a trellis. However, some vining or semi-vining types benefit from a small fence or support to keep pods off the ground, which keeps them cleaner and makes picking easier.
What is the best fertilizer for purple hull peas?
They need very little fertilizer. Too much nitrogen, especially, will hurt pod production. If your soil is poor, a light application of a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer or some compost at planting is sufficient. They actually fix their own nitrogen from the air.
By following this regional timing guide, you can confidently plant your purple hull peas at the perfect moment. Remember to check your soil temperature and adjust for your specific location. With a little planning and these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to a successful and delicious harvest of this classic Texas garden crop. There’s nothing quite like the taste of peas you grew yourself.