Pea Drama

“Sow three: one for the worm, one for the crow, and one to grow.“

I sowed some ‘sugar daddy’ peas on April 5th when the weather was nice. I was in a hurry but I just wanted to get something started in the garden quick, so two weeks later, when they didn’t germinate on time, I really kicked myself for being so impulsive. But today, 18 days later, I have a few tiny pea seedlings!

I spent the past two and a half weeks checking on these peas to see if there were any signs of sprouting, and it was tough because when I sowed the peas, I put an ugly, stiff plastic barrier around the bed to deter the dog, the raccoons, the stray cats, and anything else roaming free in my yard looking for a seedy snack. I’m sure the neighbors have really enjoyed watching me get my fingers caught in the holes as I tried to touch the soil. The birds are one thing I haven’t been able to deter. They dig through any bed I try to cover and are driving me nuts. That reminds me: I need to make a scarecrow ASAP!

A few days ago, I just couldn’t take the suspense anymore. I opened the barrier and carefully dug my fingers down into each spot to see what was going on. I was relieved to discover sprouted peas in most spots. They were intact though some had migrated. It reminded me of a quote I heard recently, “sow three: one for the worm, one for the crow, and one to grow.” Even the worms are messing with my garden! But it goes to show that nature will always try. The recent cold weather has definitely slowed these plants down but they will probably still grow. I’ll keeping them watered and hope for the best.

• TIP: It’s best to soak peas for 24 hours before sowing them to soften their skin.
• TIP: Cold temperatures may delay average germination (8-14 days) but don’t give up on your peas- check on them!