SproutSmart
SproutSmart™ Intelligent Garden Sowing

Red Ripper

Black-eyed Pea
Zone 11a Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add Red Ripper to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Red Ripper
65d to harvest

Velvety pods give way to beans with a striking, jet-black eye set in a rich, warm red-brown field—each one glossy and beautifully uniform. Red Ripper’s tender, creamy interior brings a mellow, earthy sweetness with a satisfying bite, making it a standout for fresh shelling and for hearty pot-style favorites. Grow it for reliable, warm-season performance and a harvest that looks as remarkable as it tastes—boldly patterned beans ready to shine in your favorite preparations.

Crop Dates

Growing note: Frost-free Zone 11a supports continuous outdoor production.
MilestoneDate
ClimateFrost-Free Climate
Growing ApproachContinuous Production

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity65
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitBush
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)75
Min Soil Temp (°F)70
Min Night Temp (°F)60
Harden Off (days)Not Required

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Red Ripper in Zone 11a typically begins around throughout the growing season. Wait until soil reaches at least 70°F before transplanting Red Ripper.

Garden Alerts

Frost-free Zone 11a supports continuous outdoor production.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water Vigna unguiculata during peak growth and pod fill?
During active growth and pod fill, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—typically about 1 inch (2.5 cm) per week, adjusted for rainfall and heat. Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of soil feel dry, especially once the plants start flowering and setting pods. Avoid frequent shallow watering, which encourages weak roots and makes plants more prone to stress and leaf diseases.
How can I tell when Vigna unguiculata (black-eyed peas) ‘Red Ripper’ is ready to harvest?
Harvest dry beans when pods are fully mature, dry, and brittle, and the peas rattle inside; this is usually around 60–70 days for Vigna unguiculata. For fresh shelling (green beans), pick pods when they are filled but still tender and the peas are not fully hard. If you’re unsure, open a pod—if the peas are firm and the pod is drying down, you’re at the right stage.
Botanical illustration of Red Ripper

Velvety pods give way to beans with a striking, jet-black eye set in a rich, warm red-brown field—each one glossy and beautifully uniform. Red Ripper’s tender, creamy interior brings a mellow, earthy sweetness with a satisfying bite, making it a standout for fresh shelling and for hearty pot-style favorites. Grow it for reliable, warm-season performance and a harvest that looks as remarkable as it tastes—boldly patterned beans ready to shine in your favorite preparations.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Red Ripper in Zone 11a typically begins around throughout the growing season. Wait until soil reaches at least 70°F before transplanting Red Ripper.

Garden Alerts

Frost-free Zone 11a supports continuous outdoor production.

Sowing Tips

Soil Temperature

Direct sow or transplant when soil at planting depth holds 70°F for reliable germination and early growth.

Expert Note

For best yields, sow once soil is reliably warm and keep watering light until seedlings establish—drought tolerance is a strength, but drought stress right after germination can reduce stands.