Best Peas to Grow in South Carolina

South Carolina’s warm climate and long growing season provide an excellent environment for growing various types of peas. Whether you’re interested in growing garden peas, snap peas, or Southern peas, selecting the right varieties can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best peas for your South Carolina garden.

1. Garden Peas (English Peas)

Garden peas, also known as English peas, are a popular choice for many gardeners. They thrive in cooler weather, making them a great crop for early spring or fall planting in South Carolina.

  • Recommended Varieties:

    • ‘Wando’: This variety is known for its heat tolerance, making it suitable for South Carolina’s climate. ‘Wando’ produces peas even in warmer temperatures and has a longer harvest window.
    • ‘Green Arrow’: A heavy-yielding variety that performs well in cooler temperatures. It produces long, straight pods with sweet peas inside.
    • ‘Little Marvel’: This dwarf variety is ideal for small gardens or container gardening. It produces sweet, tender peas and matures relatively quickly.

  • Planting Tips: Garden peas should be planted in early spring (February to March) or in late summer for a fall harvest. They require well-drained soil and benefit from trellising to support their vines.

2. Snap Peas

Snap peas are loved for their edible pods and sweet flavor. They are more heat-tolerant than garden peas and can be grown successfully in South Carolina with proper care.

  • Recommended Varieties:

    • ‘Sugar Snap’: A classic variety that produces crisp, sweet pods. ‘Sugar Snap’ is highly productive and can be grown in spring or fall.
    • ‘Super Sugar Snap’: This variety is similar to ‘Sugar Snap’ but offers improved disease resistance and slightly larger pods.
    • ‘Cascadia’: Known for its disease resistance and high yield, ‘Cascadia’ is a compact variety that performs well in both spring and fall gardens.

  • Planting Tips: Snap peas should be planted in early spring or late summer. They benefit from a trellis or support system to keep the vines off the ground and improve air circulation.

3. Southern Peas (Cowpeas)

Southern peas, also known as cowpeas, thrive in the hot, humid climate of South Carolina. These heat-loving legumes are typically grown in the summer and are a staple in Southern cuisine.

  • Recommended Varieties:

    • ‘Mississippi Silver’: A popular variety that produces large, creamy-colored peas. It is drought-tolerant and has good disease resistance.
    • ‘Pinkeye Purple Hull’: Known for its distinctive pink-eyed peas and purple hulls, this variety is highly productive and well-suited to the South Carolina climate.
    • ‘Zipper Cream’: A favorite in the South, ‘Zipper Cream’ peas are easy to shell and have a creamy texture when cooked. This variety is heat-tolerant and performs well in the hot summer months.

  • Planting Tips: Southern peas are best planted in late spring after the soil has warmed up, typically in May or June. They grow well in a wide range of soil types but prefer well-drained, sandy loam.

Conclusion

When choosing peas to grow in South Carolina, it’s important to consider the specific climate and growing conditions. Garden peas and snap peas are ideal for cooler seasons, while Southern peas excel in the summer heat. By selecting the right varieties and providing proper care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of peas in your South Carolina garden. Happy gardening!