If you’re a gardener in Colorado, knowing when to plant peas is the key to a sweet and abundant harvest. The best time for planting peas in Colorado is a narrow window that balances cold soil with the threat of late spring heat.
Peas are a cool-season crop that thrive in Colorado’s spring conditions, but our unpredictable weather and varying elevations require careful timing. Planting too early can mean seeds rot in cold, wet ground, while planting too late exposes plants to our hot, dry summer sun which stops production. Let’s break down the perfect schedule and methods for success.
When to Plant Peas in Colorado – Best Time for Planting
For most Front Range and urban corridor areas, the ideal planting period is from mid-March to mid-April. You should aim to get your pea seeds into the ground as soon as the soil is workable—meaning it’s no longer frozen and has dried out enough that it doesn’t clump when you squeeze a handful.
A great traditional rule is to plant peas around St. Patrick’s Day. However, Colorado’s diverse climates mean this date is just a starting point.
- Eastern Plains & Lower Elevations (Below 5,500 ft): You can often start in late March. Soil warms quicker here, but watch for late snowstorms.
- Front Range Foothills (5,500 – 7,000 ft): Target early to mid-April. Wait for south-facing slopes to clear of snow.
- High Mountain Valleys (Above 7,000 ft): You’ll need to wait until late April or even early May. Use the soil workability test as your main guide.
The goal is for seeds to germinate and seedlings to grow during cool, moist weather. Peas can tolerate a light frost after they sprout, which makes them perfect for Colorado springs.
Understanding Your Colorado Garden’s Microclimate
Your specific yard has its own microclimate. South-facing beds warm up fastest and are perfect for earliest planting. North-facing spots or areas shaded by buildings will stay cooler and wetter longer, requiring a delay of a week or two.
Using a simple soil thermometer can take the guesswork out. Pea seeds germinate best when soil temperatures are between 40°F and 75°F. If the soil is below 40°F, they will likely just sit there and may rot.
Choosing the Right Pea Varieties for Colorado
Selecting varieties suited to short springs will maximize your yield. Look for types labeled as “early maturing” or “cold-tolerant.”
- Shelling Peas (Garden Peas): Try ‘Lincoln’ or ‘Green Arrow’. They are reliable and produce well before the heat.
- Snap Peas: ‘Sugar Ann’ and ‘Super Sugar Snap’ are excellent choices. They mature quickly and have sturdy vines.
- Snow Peas: ‘Oregon Giant’ is a productive variety with good disease resistance.
Consider bush-type peas if you have limited space or want to avoid staking. Taller vining types, however, often produce heavier yields over a longer period if supported properly.
How to Plant Pea Seeds for Success
Proper planting technique gives your peas a strong start. Follow these steps:
- Prepare the Soil: Work the soil to a depth of about 8-12 inches. Peas don’t need rich soil, but they do need good drainage. Mix in some compost, but avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which promote leafy growth instead of pods.
- Inoculate the Seeds: This is a secret weapon for Colorado gardeners. Use a legume inoculant powder, which contains beneficial bacteria that helps peas fix nitrogen from the air. It leads to healthier plants and bigger harvests.
- Plant at the Right Depth: Sow seeds 1 inch deep and about 2 inches apart. You can plant in double rows spaced 6 inches apart to save space.
- Water Gently: After planting, water the bed thoroughly. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy until seeds germinate, which usually takes 7-14 days.
Caring for Your Growing Pea Plants
Once your peas are up, they need minimal but specific care. Provide a support structure early, like a trellis or pea fence, for vining types. This keeps pods clean and makes harvesting easier.
Water is crucial, especially during flowering and pod development. Colorado’s air is dry, so aim to provide about 1 inch of water per week if rainfall is insufficient. A layer of mulch around the plants helps conserve soil moisture and keeps roots cool as temperatures rise.
Watch for common pests like aphids. A strong spray of water from the hose is often enough to dislodge them. Good air circulation around plants helps prevent fungal diseases, which can be a problem in wet springs.
When and How to Harvest Your Peas
Harvest timing depends on the pea type. Generally, pods are ready about 3 weeks after flowering.
- Shelling Peas: Harvest when pods are plump and rounded but still bright green.
- Snap Peas: Pick when pods are fat and the peas inside have started to swell; the whole pod should be crisp.
- Snow Peas: Harvest while pods are still very flat, before the peas inside develop size.
The most important rule is to pick regularly. This encourages the plant to produce more pods. If you let pods over-mature, the plant will think its job is done and stop producing. Use two hands to harvest—one to hold the vine and one to pinch off the pod—to avoid damaging the plant.
Extending Your Pea Season in Colorado
Our spring can be short, but you can get a longer harvest with two strategies. First, practice succession planting. Sow a new, short row every 10-14 days until early May. This staggers your harvest instead of having it all at once.
Second, try a fall planting. For a autumn crop, plant seeds about 8-10 weeks before your first average fall frost date. This is often in late July or early August. The trick is to keep the seeds and seedlings cool and moist during summer’s heat. Use shade cloth and extra water until cooler fall weather arrives.
Common Problems and Solutions for Colorado Peas
Even with perfect timing, issues can arise. Here’s quick fixes:
- Seeds Didn’t Sprout: Usually caused by soil too cold and wet, or seeds rotting. Replant with fresh, inoculated seeds in better-drained soil.
- Plants Stunted or Yellowing: Could be poor drainage or a nitrogen deficiency, even though peas fix their own nitrogen. A side dressing of compost can help.
- Powdery Mildew: This white fungus appears as summer heats up. Plant resistant varieties and ensure good air flow. A baking soda spray can help manage it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I plant peas from seed directly outside, or should I start them indoors?
Always direct-sow pea seeds. They have delicate roots that don’t transplant well. Starting them indoors usually offers no benifit and can set them back.
What is the latest I can plant peas in Colorado?
For a spring crop, aim to get seeds in the ground by May 1st at the latest for most areas. After that, soil temperatures get to warm for good germination and plants will struggle in the heat. Focus on a fall planting instead.
Do peas need full sun in Colorado?
Yes, they prefer full sun (at least 6-8 hours). In our climate, more sun is better as it helps dry morning dew and prevent disease. In very hot locations, a little afternoon shade can help prolong the harvest.
My peas are flowering but not producing pods. Why?
High heat is the most common culprit. Peas will often drop their blossoms if daytime temperatures consistently exceed 80°F. Inadequate watering during flowering can also cause this issue. Ensure they are getting enough moisture.
Can I save seeds from my peas for next year?
Absolutely. Let some pods dry completely and turn brown on the vine. Then shell the peas and let the seeds dry further indoors for a week before storing in a cool, dark place. They should be viable for 2-3 years.
By following this Colorado-specific guide, you’ll be able to time your planting perfectly. With a little planning for our unique climate, you’ll enjoy a plentiful harvest of sweet, homegrown peas straight from your garden.