If you’re planning your garden in Washington, knowing when to plant peas is key to a great harvest. The optimal spring planting times vary across our state’s unique climates, but getting them in at the right moment leads to sweeter, more abundant pods.
Peas are a cool-season crop, thriving in chilly soil and fading in summer heat. Planting them too early in cold, wet ground can cause rot, while planting too late means they’ll struggle as temperatures rise. Your success hinges on timing it just right with your local conditions.
When To Plant Peas In Washington State – Optimal Spring Planting Times
This guide breaks down the best planting windows for Washington’s main gardening regions. We’ll cover soil preparation, planting steps, and variety selection to ensure your pea patch is a success.
Understanding Washington’s Gardening Zones
Washington State has several distinct climate zones. Your location is the biggest factor in your planting schedule. The western and eastern halves of the state have very different spring conditions.
Western Washington (west of the Cascades) has a maritime climate. Springs are cool, wet, and long. Frost dates are earlier, but soggy soil is often the main challenge.
Eastern Washington (east of the Cascades) has a continental climate. It’s drier with sharper temperature swings. Springs can be shorter, with a later last frost but faster warming.
Your specific microclimate matters too. A sunny, south-facing slope warms faster than a low, shady spot. Observing your own garden is the best tool you have.
Regional Planting Timelines for Washington
Here’s a general schedule based on region. These dates are estimates; always use soil temperature as your final guide.
- Western Washington & Puget Sound: Plant from late February through mid-April. In milder coastal areas, you can often start in late February. In cooler inland spots, wait until mid-March. The goal is to have peas maturing before the dry summer heat sets in.
- Eastern Washington: Plant from mid-March to late April. Wait until the heavy frost risk has passed and soil is workable. The warmer, drier valleys can start earlier, while higher elevations should wait until April.
- Columbia Basin: This area warms quickly. Aim for a March planting to avoid the intense early summer heat.
- Coastal Areas: The moderate temperatures allow for a very long window, from February to May, and even a late summer planting for fall harvest in some places.
The Best Soil Temperature for Planting Peas
Air temperature is less important than soil temperature. This is your most reliable signal. Peas germinate best in soil that is between 45°F and 75°F.
Invest in a simple soil thermometer. Check the temperature at planting depth (about 2 inches) in the morning for an accurate reading.
Plant your peas as soon as the soil consistently reaches 45°F. They will germinate slowly at this temperature, but they’ll get a strong start. If the soil is too cold (below 40°F), seeds are likely to rot instead of sprout.
How to Prepare Your Garden Bed
Good preparation makes all the difference. Peas need well-draining soil to prevent seed rot.
- Choose a Sunny Spot: Select a location that gets at least 6 hours of full sun. In hotter parts of Eastern WA, some afternoon shade can be beneficial.
- Improve the Soil: Work in 2-3 inches of compost or well-rotted manure. Peas don’t need heavy nitrogen fertilizer, but they love rich, organic matter.
- Check Drainage: If your soil is heavy clay, raised beds can help. Avoid working the soil when it’s soaking wet, as this creates hard clumps.
- Adjust pH if Needed: Peas prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.5). A simple test kit can tell you if you need to add lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Follow these steps for successful germination and growth.
- Soak Seeds (Optional): Soaking peas in water for 4-12 hours before planting can speed up germination, especially in drier eastern soils. Don’t soak for longer, or they may split.
- Plant at the Right Depth: Sow seeds 1 to 1.5 inches deep. In sandy soil, plant a bit deeper; in clay, a bit shallower.
- Space Them Out: Place seeds about 2 inches apart in rows. Space rows 12-24 inches apart, depending on whether you’re growing bush or climbing types.
- Provide Support Early: Install trellises, stakes, or netting at planting time. Disturbing the soil later can damage delicate roots. Peas climb using tendrils and need something to grab onto.
- Water Gently: Water the planted area thoroughly but softly to avoid washing away seeds. Keep the soil consistently moist, not soggy, until seedlings emerge.
- Consider Succession Planting: To extend your harvest, plant a new batch of seeds every 2-3 weeks until about a month before your region’s typical hot weather arrives.
Choosing the Right Pea Varieties for Washington
Selecting varieties suited to our climate improves your results. Here are some excellent choices.
- Shelling Peas (Garden Peas): ‘Green Arrow’ is a classic, prolific, and disease-resistant. ‘Lincoln’ is another reliable heirloom that handles cool springs well.
- Snap Peas: ‘Sugar Snap’ is a favorite for its edible, crunchy pod. ‘Super Sugar Snap’ has improved disease resistance, a plus in damp western springs.
- Snow Peas: ‘Oregon Sugar Pod II’ is a dwarf, productive plant great for smaller spaces. ‘Mammoth Melting Sugar’ produces large, flat pods perfect for stir-fries.
- Early Varieties: For a quick harvest, look for fast-maturing types like ‘Maestro’ (shelling) or ‘Sugar Ann’ (snap pea).
Common Problems and Solutions
Even with perfect timing, you might face a few challenges.
Birds and Pests
Birds love to pull up pea seedlings. Cover newly planted rows with lightweight row cover or bird netting until plants are a few inches tall. Slugs can be a major issue in western Washington; use bait or traps if needed.
Poor Germination
If seeds don’t sprout, the soil was likely too cold and wet, causing rot. Replant with fresh seeds once the soil has warmed and dried slightly. Old seeds can also have low viability, so use seeds from a recent packet.
Slow Growth
Cool, wet weather can stall growth. Be patient. If growth seems stunted and leaves are yellowing, the soil might be deficient in phosphorus. A side dressing of bone meal can help.
FAQ: Planting Peas in Washington State
Can I plant peas in the fall in Washington?
Yes, in many parts of Washington, especially western regions, you can plant peas in late summer (August) for a fall harvest. They thrive in the cooling temperatures.
What if a late frost hits after my peas have sprouted?
Peas seedlings are quite frost-tolerant. They can handle light frosts. If a hard freeze (below 28°F) is forecast, cover them overnight with a row cover or cloth.
How often should I water my pea plants?
Water deeply once a week if there’s no rain, providing about an inch of water. Increase frequency when pods are forming, especially in drier eastern areas. Avoid overhead watering to prevent foliar diseases.
When are peas ready to harvest?
Harvest shelling peas when the pods are plump but still glossy. Snap peas are ready when the pods are rounded and the peas inside are developed but the pod remains crisp. Pick snow peas while the pods are still very flat, before the peas inside swell.
Can I save seeds from my peas for next year?
Absolutely. Peas are self-pollinating and easy to save. Let some pods dry completely on the vine, then shell and store the hard, dry seeds in a cool, dark place.
By following these regional guidelines and paying attention to soil temperature, you’ll master the art of planting peas in Washington. Your reward will be a delicious, homegrown harvest that captures the sweet taste of spring.