Sweet pea flowers, Lathyrus odoratus, are climbing annuals known for their delicate fragrant flowers that come in a variety of colors. Sweet Peas give a romantic cottage vibe to a garden.
These annuals prefer cooler weather, so they are perfect for your spring garden or in warmer areas fall gardens.
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Sweet peas have been cherished by gardeners for hundreds of years. These delicate flowers are common in English cottage gardens and are part of the legume family, also known as Fabaceae. Grow Sweet Peas in your garden, in pots, or use in a beautiful flower arrangement.
Where can Sweet Pea Flowers Grow?
Sweet peas grow best in USDA gardening zones 2-9. Sweet peas can be grown in warmer climates like Phoenix, however they perform best in cooler climates. We plant them every year in our low desert garden.
When to Plant Sweet Peas
The ideal time to plant sweet peas is in early spring, after the last frost. In warmer climates, you can also plant them in late fall for a winter bloom.
In Phoenix
Plant sweet peas October through February in Phoenix or gardening zone 9b.
How to Plant Sweet Peas
Sweet peas prefer well-drained, fertile soil. Add compost to enrich the soil. Soak the seeds in water overnight before planting. This helps soften the seed coat and encourages quicker germination.
From Seed
Sow the seeds about 1 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart. If you’re planting in rows, space the rows about 6 inches apart.
After planting, water the seeds well. Keep the soil moist to encourage germination.
Sweet peas like to climb, provide a trellis or fence, provide support for the vines to climb.
Fiskars Ergo Garden Tool Set
Set includes one trowel, transplanter and cultivator
How to Care for Sweet Peas
Once your sweet peas are planted keep them well watered. They like consistent moisture, so water regularly. Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pinch out the growing tips when the plants are about 6 inches tall. This encourages bushier growth and more flowers. Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming or leave them and allow them to go to seed.
Types of Sweet Pea Flowers
Sweet peas come in a range of varieties, each offering unique colors and fragrances. Below are some popular types to consider:
Old-Fashioned Varieties
These varieties are known for their intense fragrance and vibrant colors. ‘Cupani’s Original’ and ‘Matucana’ are examples of old-fashioned varieties.
Modern Hybrids
Looking for larger flowers and a wider range of colors? Try a modern hybrid. Popular hybrids include ‘Spencer Mix’ and ‘Royal Family Mix.’
Compact Varieties
Compact varieties of sweet peas like ‘Little Sweetheart’ and ‘Cupid’ are perfect for containers or small spaces.
Companion Plants for Sweet Peas
Sweet peas are beautiful flowers alone and they also pair well with other flowers. Some pretty flowers that complement sweet peas include:
- Lavender
- Nasturtiums
- Roses
- Snapdragons
Lavender
Lavender’s silvery foliage and purple blooms provide a lovely contrast to sweet peas.
Nasturtium
Both nasturtiums and sweet peas are great for attracting beneficial insects, and their vibrant colors look beautiful together.
Roses
Sweet peas and roses create a stunning and fragrant combination. The climbing habit of sweet peas can fill in the gaps between rose bushes.
Snapdragons
Snapdragons add height and structure to your garden, pairing nicely with the climbing sweet peas.
Trellis with Decorative Hummingbirds
Support for climbing flowers.
Benefits of Growing Sweet Pea Flowers
Beyond their delicate beauty and unique fragrance, grow sweet peas to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. If you’re short on space or want a vertical garden, their climbing habit adds vertical interest to your garden.
Sweet pea flowers offer beauty, fragrance, and a touch of elegance to any garden and they make excellent cut flowers.