Renee's Garden Exhibition Sweet Pea, North Shore

Soil & Water:Sweet peas must have well-drained soil, so dig deeply and enrich with aged manure or compost before sowing seeds. Water well and mulch as vines grow.

Planting & Growing:Sow seeds in full sun in cool early spring weather (as early as the ground can be worked). In mild winter climates, where the ground does not freeze, sweet peas can be planted in the fall. Erect a well-anchored trellis, fence, or vertical netting for these climbing vines before planting seeds. Seedlings will form strong root systems, then overwinter to bloom vigorously in the spring. Plant seeds 1" deep and 2 - 3" apart. When seedlings are 2" tall, thin to 4-5" apart to allow plants room to mature. Sweet peas bloom best before the weather gets too hot. Where summer heat comes on fast, they'll appreciate a spot with afternoon shade. Anchor supports well as vies will grow heavy with bloom. Protect seedlings from birds, slugs, and snails. For longest bloom, pick flowers often and keep faded blossoms cut.