Sweet Pea

Sow seed in October or November in root trainers in a cold frame, or in March to April on a windowsill. Nick the seed coat or soak overnight to speed germination. Plant out after hardening off in late April or May, spacing 15-20 cm apart. Prepare the soil deeply by digging a trench and incorporating well-rotted compost or manure the previous autumn. Sweet peas need rich, moist soil and consistent watering. Provide bamboo canes, netting, or a wigwam for support. Feed fortnightly with a high-potash liquid fertiliser once flowering begins. Pick flowers every two to three days to prevent seed pods forming, which stops flowering.

No traditional pruning required as sweet peas are annuals. Pinch out the growing tips when seedlings have three pairs of leaves to encourage bushy, multi-stemmed plants. Remove tendrils if growing for exhibition to encourage longer, straighter stems. Pull up plants after flowering ends in September.