Sweet pea
Lathyrus odoratus
Fragrant annual climber grown for scented, colorful pea-like flowers. Pinnate leaves with tendrils; prefers cool seasons, full sun to part shade and well-drained soil.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: toxic
All parts—especially seeds and pods—contain toxic compounds. Ingestion can cause vomiting, abdominal pain and neurological symptoms in people and pets; seek vet/medical advice if eaten.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Sweet peas perform best in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct morning sun. In hot climates give some afternoon shade or dappled light. Place against a south- or west-facing wall or on a sunny trellis where air can circulate freely.
Water
Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries; in containers this may be every 3–4 days, less often in cool weather. Avoid wetting the crown and allow good drainage to prevent root rot.
Humidity
Prefers average garden humidity. They do not need high humidity; avoid stagnant humid air. Outdoors is usually fine; indoors, raise humidity by grouping or occasional misting if very dry.
Temperature
Ideal range about 7–18°C (45–65°F). Tolerates down to ~3°C (37°F) and up to ~24°C (75°F) but struggles in prolonged heat and hard frost.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
White powdery coating on leaves
Cause: Powdery mildew from poor air circulation or humid conditions.
Solution: Improve spacing, prune affected growth, water at soil level, remove infected leaves and use organic fungicide if persistent.
Clusters of tiny insects; sticky leaves
Cause: Aphid infestation during warm, dry spells or on new growth.
Solution: Spray with strong water jet, apply insecticidal soap, encourage predators like ladybugs; avoid excess nitrogen.
Yellowing, wilting and soft crowns
Cause: Root rot from waterlogged soil or poor drainage.
Solution: Stop watering, improve drainage or repot into fresh free-draining mix, remove affected roots and replant in raised beds if necessary.
Few flowers, long weak stems (legginess)
Cause: Insufficient sun or excessive nitrogen fertiliser.
Solution: Move to a sunnier spot, reduce high-nitrogen feeds, pinch growing tips to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
✂️How to Propagate Sweet pea
Propagate by seed: pre-soak seeds 12–24 hours or nick the seed coat to help germination. Sow 2–3 cm deep in pots or drills outdoors in early spring or autumn (mild areas). Keep consistently moist and provide support as seedlings grow. Harden off spring-sown plants before transplanting and thin to 15–20 cm spacing.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Fabaceae
Native to: Native to the eastern Mediterranean region—southern Europe, Sicily and nearby islands.
Natural Habitat: Climbs through meadows, hedgerows and rocky slopes in cool maritime climates; favors well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soils with steady moisture and good air flow.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
In mild areas sow in autumn for early blooms; protect young plants from hard frosts with fleece. Mulch established clumps to moderate soil temperature and retain moisture.
Spring
Sow or set out seedlings early; keep soil moist and install trellis or netting. Feed with balanced fertilizer as flowering begins and pinch tips to promote branching.
Summer
Deadhead spent blooms regularly to prolong flowering. Water deeply in dry spells and provide afternoon shade during heatwaves; watch for pests and mildew.
Fall
Allow seed pods to ripen if saving seed. Cut back spent plants once foliage dies back, clear debris to reduce overwintering pests and diseases.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water sweet peas?
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry—typically every 3–7 days depending on temperature and container size.
Do sweet peas need full sun?
Yes—sweet peas prefer full sun with at least six hours daily; in very hot climates provide light afternoon shade.
Are sweet peas poisonous to dogs and cats?
Yes. Sweet peas are toxic; seeds and pods are most dangerous. Seek veterinary help if your pet ingests any part.
When is the best time to sow sweet pea seeds?
Sow early spring or autumn in mild areas. Autumn sowing gives earlier blooms in cool maritime climates.
How do I support climbing sweet peas?
Provide trellis, netting or bamboo canes at planting time and train tendrils as they grow; spacing 15–20 cm helps airflow and support.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025