How to Grow Sugar Snap Peas in Florida: Tips for Success

Growing sugar snap peas in Florida can be a bit tricky due to the state’s warm and often humid climate. However, with the right timing and care, you can enjoy a healthy crop of these crisp, sweet peas. Since sugar snap peas prefer cooler weather, planting them during Florida’s cooler months is essential. Here’s a guide to help you grow sugar snap peas in the Sunshine State.

1. Best Time to Plant

Florida’s climate can be challenging for cool-season crops like sugar snap peas, but the fall and winter months are ideal. Here’s how to time your planting:

  • Fall and Winter Planting: In Florida, you should plant sugar snap peas in late fall, around October to November, to take advantage of the cooler weather. In South Florida, planting can be extended into December. In North and Central Florida, aim to plant between October and early November to avoid the hotter days.

2. Choosing the Right Variety

Some sugar snap pea varieties are better suited to Florida’s climate:

  • Sugar Ann: An early-maturing variety that can handle a bit of warmth.
  • Cascadia: Known for being more tolerant of heat, which is beneficial for Florida’s warmer winters.
  • Super Sugar Snap: Vigorous and disease-resistant, making it a good choice for Florida’s fluctuating winter temperatures.

3. Soil Preparation

Sugar snap peas grow best in well-draining, loose soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Florida’s sandy soils are generally well-draining, but you’ll want to amend the soil to add fertility:

  • Add compost: Incorporate organic matter like compost to increase the soil’s nutrient content.
  • Improve drainage: If you’re gardening in a more clay-like or water-retentive area (especially in North Florida), ensure the soil drains well by adding sand or organic matter.

4. Planting Sugar Snap Peas

  • Planting Depth: Sow seeds about 1 inch deep.
  • Spacing: Space seeds 2 inches apart in rows that are 12–18 inches apart. The plants need room to grow, and good airflow will help prevent diseases in Florida’s humid climate.

5. Providing Support

Sugar snap peas are climbers and require support to thrive. Set up trellises or stakes for the vines to climb as they grow. Since Florida can experience strong winds, particularly in the fall, secure your trellises well to prevent damage to the plants.

6. Watering and Mulching

While peas need consistent moisture, be careful not to overwater them. Florida’s fall and winter can be dry, so water your plants regularly, especially when they are young. Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

7. Dealing with Florida’s Warm Winters

Sugar snap peas prefer temperatures between 55°F and 70°F. In warmer parts of Florida, like South Florida, winter temperatures can exceed this range, potentially causing stress to the plants. To combat this:

  • Consider shading your plants during the warmest parts of the day if the winter heat becomes too intense.
  • Plant in an area of your garden that receives partial afternoon shade if possible, especially in South Florida.

8. Pest and Disease Management

Florida’s humidity can foster some pests and diseases. Here are the main concerns and how to manage them:

  • Aphids and Whiteflies: Both can be controlled using neem oil or insecticidal soap.
  • Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease is common in humid environments like Florida. Ensure good air circulation and water the plants at the base to avoid splashing water on the leaves.
  • Downy Mildew: Another disease exacerbated by Florida’s humidity. Similar to powdery mildew, it can be prevented by good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.

9. Harvesting

Sugar snap peas are usually ready for harvest about 60–70 days after planting. Harvest when the pods are plump but still tender, and be sure to pick regularly to encourage more pods to form.

Conclusion

Although Florida’s warm climate may seem challenging, sugar snap peas can thrive with careful planning. By planting during the cooler months, ensuring proper support and watering, and managing pests and diseases, you can grow a healthy crop of sugar snap peas. With some attention to timing and climate, your Florida garden can produce sweet, crunchy peas that will be a delightful addition to your meals.