Beans, Lentils, Alfalfa, Peanuts, Soybean, Licorice
English Peas (Pisum Sativum): "Avola"
Virginia Peanuts (Arachis Hypogaea): "Gregory"
Hardy in USDA Zones 2-9
Annuals
Produces pods (non-edible) with 8 very sweet peas
Sun requirements: Full sun although tolerant of partial shade.
Water requirements: Water very deeply at least once a week, especially during hot weather. Avoid frequent, light waterings.
Space requirements: Sow 2 inches (5 cm) apart, with 25 inches between rows. Plant about 1.5 inches (4 cm) deep.
Soil requirements: Fertile, well-drained soil
Possible Companion Plants: Eggplant, radishes, peppers
Start date: Direct sow between March and April.
Thinning: Thin plants around 2 inches tall.
Staking: Provide support, such as a trellis, rope trellis, or fence, when peas reach 5 inches tall.
Harvest: Continually harvest peas to encourage high production.
Diseases: Powdery mildew is a common problem with leaves. Make sure plants have good ventilation. Treat with neem oil.
Hardy in USDA Zones 6-11, although grows best in areas with a long, frost-free season
Perennial, although usually grown as an annual
Edible parts: the seeds
Sun requirements: Full sun! As sunny a spot as possible.
Water requirements: Peanuts require 1 inch of water per week. Watering is especially important immediately after germination and about 60 days after germination, when the plant begins producing the seed pods containing peanuts.
Space requirements: Sow peanuts two inches deep and eight inches apart. Leave 18 inches between rows.
Soil requirements: Loose, well-drained, sandy soil with well-aged compost.
Possible Companion Plants: Potatoes and eggplant. Be careful not to plant tall plants next to peanuts, as they don't tolerate shade.
Start date: Direct-sow peanuts when the soil temperature reaches 65 F (usually around mid-April for DC). However, it's most important to make sure the plant has 130-140 frost-free days. If starting in mid-April puts the peanuts of danger of experiencing frost, start the peanuts inside in mid-March and transplant outside.
"Pegging Down": After flowering, the place will produce small shoots that reach towards the ground. After reaching the soil, these shoots will produce peanuts.
Harvest: When stems turn yellow, or 130 days after germination, pull the entire plant up gently. Allow the peanuts to dry for a few days before removing the shells from the plant.
Diseases: Pod rot (pictured) is a general term for mildewing or decay of the pods while in the ground. Make sure soil is well-draining and avoid excessive watering. If necessary, apply fungicides.
Info compiled by Tallulah Bowden, 2021.