Black Eye Peas - Raw Seed (lb)

Heat-loving and vigorous, black eye peas are a versatile warm season cover crop that thrive in hot, sunny conditions. Known for their ability to fix nitrogen—adding 150–250 lb/acre back into the soil—these legumes enrich soil fertility while producing abundant organic matter. When planted early, their rapid growth forms a dense canopy that suppresses summer weeds, making them an excellent choice for improving soil health and reducing competition in the garden or field.

This adaptable legume reaches a height of about 40" and flowers in 80–90 days, with full maturity in 90–120 days. It is well-suited for growers in warm climates, particularly in California, but performs reliably in a variety of regions with adequate heat. Plant in rows spaced 18"–24" apart for best results, and use a cowpea inoculant to maximize nitrogen fixation. The plants also provide erosion control and organic matter for long-term soil improvement.

Ideal for crop rotation systems, black eye peas help break pest and disease cycles while replenishing vital nutrients. They perform best in well-drained soils and require minimal inputs beyond regular watering during establishment. Once mature, they can be incorporated into the soil as green manure or harvested for their nutrient-rich seeds.

Find more soil-building options in our Cover Crop Seeds Collection.

Scientific Name: Vigna unguiculata
Planting Season: Warm season
Application Rate: 40–50 lb/acre or 2–3 lb/1,000 sq ft
Inoculant: Cowpea inoculant (sold separately)
Germination: 5–10 days
Plant Height: 40"
Days to Maturity: 80–90 to flower, 90–120 to fruit
Uses: Nitrogen fixation, weed suppression, organic matter production