How to Manage Pests

Planting peas

Direct seeding is the preferred method for growing members of the pea family. They should be planted on raised beds made by adding large amounts of sifted compost or other soil amendments so that a bed is established above the previous level of soil. Peas should be sown so that they are planted 1 to 2 inches deep, in double rows spaced 3 to 6 inches apart, and 2 feet between the next double row. Peas will tolerate crowding and can be spaced 2 inches apart in the row. For a family of four, a moderate row length would be 30 to 40 feet. Fungicide-treated seed is highly recommended for all types of peas. If peas are grown during the summer months, young seedlings can be protected with 50% shade cloth or 2 layers of floating row cover until they have about 6 leaves. This helps protect them from sunburn as well as seedling pests such as flea beetles, vegetable weevils, leafminers, snails, and slugs. It may also protect them from birds.