If you’re wondering when to plant peas in NH, you’ve come to the right place. Getting the timing right is the single most important step for a sweet, abundant harvest in New Hampshire’s unique climate.
Peas are a cool-season crop that thrive in chilly spring soil. Plant them too late, and summer heat will shut down production. Plant them to early in frozen ground, and the seeds will just sit there. This guide will walk you through the best planting times for your garden, from the coast to the North Country.
When to Plant Peas in NH
For most of New Hampshire, the ideal window for planting peas is from late March to mid-April. The perfect signal is when your garden soil is workable—not frozen, not a muddy bog, but cool and crumbly.
A classic rule of thumb is to plant peas as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring. Many gardeners aim for St. Patrick’s Day as a traditional target date, but always let soil conditions be your final guide. You can also consult the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone map for more precise timing.
Understanding New Hampshire’s Planting Zones
New Hampshire spans zones 3b to 6a. This means last frost dates vary widely.
- Zones 5b-6a (Southeastern NH & Coast): Last frost around May 1. You can often plant peas in early April.
- Zones 4a-5a (Central & Southwestern NH): Last frost around May 15-30. Target mid to late April for planting.
- Zones 3b-4a (Northern NH & Mountains): Last frost can be early June. Wait until late April or even early May.
Soil Temperature is Your Secret Tool
For the best germination, use a soil thermometer. Peas seeds sprout best in soil temperatures between 40°F and 75°F. The ideal range is 45°F to 60°F.
If you plant when soil is below 40°F, germination will be very slow and spotty. Seeds are also more likely to rot. Don’t rush it if we have a cold, wet spring.
Spring vs. Fall Planting in New Hampshire
Spring is the primary season for peas. But did you know you can also plant for a fall harvest?
- Spring Planting: The main event. Focus on getting peas in early for a June/July harvest.
- Fall Planting: For a autumn crop, count back 70-80 days from your first average fall frost. Plant around mid-to-late July. This can be trickier due to summer heat, so choose a heat-tolerant variety and provide ample water.
How to Plant Peas for Success
Once your timing is set, proper planting ensures a strong start.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
- Choose a Sunny Site: Pick a spot that gets at least 6 hours of full sun. Well-draining soil is critical.
- Prepare the Soil: Work the soil to loosen it about 8-10 inches deep. Mix in compost or aged manure. Peas don’t need rich soil, but they do need good drainage.
- Plant the Seeds: Sow seeds 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart. Space rows 12-24 inches apart depending on your support method.
- Provide Support: Install trellises, stakes, or pea netting at planting time. It’s much harder to do later without damaging seedlings.
- Water Gently: Water the seeded area well and keep the soil consistently moist until seeds sprout.
Choosing the Right Pea Varieties for NH
Selecting types suited for short seasons improves your results.
- Shelling Peas: ‘Green Arrow’ and ‘Lincoln’ are reliable, disease-resistant classics.
- Snap Peas: ‘Sugar Ann’ (early) and ‘Sugar Snap’ are favorites for their edible pods.
- Snow Peas: ‘Oregon Giant’ produces broad, tender pods perfect for stir-fries.
- Dwarf/Bush Types: Like ‘Tom Thumb,’ are great for containers or small spaces with minimal support.
Pre-Soaking and Inoculant: Two Pro Tips
To speed up germination, you can pre-soak seeds in water for 4-8 hours before planting. Don’t soak for longer or they may rot.
More importantly, use a legume inoculant. This powder contains beneficial bacteria that helps peas fix nitrogen from the air. It leads to healthier plants and bigger yields, especially in new garden beds.
Caring for Your Pea Plants
Peas are relatively low-maintenance, but a few key care steps make a big difference.
Watering and Mulching
Peas need about 1 inch of water per week. Water at the base of plants to keep foliage dry and prevent disease. Once seedlings are a few inches tall, apply a light mulch of straw or shredded leaves to conserve moisture and keep soil cool.
Feeding and Weeding
If you used inoculant and prepared soil with compost, extra fertilizer usually isn’t necessary. Too much nitrogen will give you lush leaves but few pods. The main task is gentle weeding when plants are small, as peas have shallow roots.
Pest and Disease Watch
Common issues in NH include:
- Aphids: Blast them off with a strong spray of water.
- Powdery Mildew: Appears as white powder on leaves in humid weather. Choose resistant varieties and ensure good air circulation.
- Birds & Rodents: Birds sometimes pull up seedlings. Use row cover or netting if they become a problem.
Harvesting and Storing Your Pea Crop
Harvest regularly to encourage more pod production. Pick shelling peas when pods are plump but still glossy. For snap and snow peas, harvest before the peas inside become to large and the pods tough.
Use two hands to avoid damaging the vine—hold the vine with one hand and pick with the other. Peas are best eaten fresh, but they also freeze exceptionally well. Blanch them briefly, then freeze on a tray before storing in bags.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant peas before the last frost?
Yes! Peas seedlings can tolerate light frosts. The soil temperature is more important than the air temperature for planting. Getting them in early is the goal.
What if I missed the spring planting window?
You can try a fast-maturing variety for a late spring planting, but your harvest will be smaller and may coincide with heat. Your better option is to plan for a fall crop planted in mid-summer.
How long do peas take to grow?
Most pea varieties take 55 to 70 days from planting to harvest. Check the “days to maturity” on your seed packet for the specific timeline.
Why are my pea plants yellowing?
Yellowing leaves can be caused by to much water, poor drainage, or a nitrogen deficiency. Ensure your soil isn’t waterlogged. Using that legume inoculant at planting helps prevent nutrient issues.
Can I grow peas in containers?
Absolutely. Choose a dwarf or bush variety and a container at least 12 inches deep. Ensure it has drainage holes and provide a small trellis or support for the vines.
Timing your pea planting correctly in New Hampshire sets the stage for a rewarding harvest. By watching your soil, not just the calendar, and choosing the right varieties, you’ll enjoy the crisp, sweet taste of homegrown peas from your own backyard. Remember, the race is to mature before the summer heat, so don’t be afraid to get those seeds in the ground as soon as its workable.