Penelope
65d to harvest
Sweetly fragrant from the moment pods swell, Penelope shelling peas deliver a vivid, garden-fresh burst of flavor with tender, bright-green sweetness at peak maturity. The plants are compact and steady, producing well-filled pods that hold their quality for reliable harvest windows—ideal for home gardeners who want a dependable crop with a refined, delicate texture. Grow Penelope for spoonfuls of plump peas that shine in classic shelling preparations and for preserving when you want that just-picked taste to linger.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Direct Sow |
| Last Frost | Apr 25th |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Apr 25th |
| Harvest Begins | Jun 29th |
| Harvest Ends | Oct 16th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 65 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Upright |
| Support Needed | Trellis |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 45 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 40 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 32 |
| Harden Off (days) | Not Required |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Pisum sativum during the main growing phase?
During flowering and pod fill, keep soil evenly moist—typically about 1 inch (2–3 cm) of water per week, split into 1–2 deep waterings. Water at the base and stop if the soil stays soggy, because waterlogged conditions reduce root function and can increase disease. A quick check: the top 1 inch of soil should dry slightly between waterings, not bone-dry or swampy.
When is Pisum sativum ready to harvest?
Harvest when pods are fully formed and feel firm, with peas filling the pod but still tender—typically around 60–70 days after sowing (your crop is ~65 days). For shelling peas, pick when peas are about the size you want and the pods are bright and crisp, before the peas harden. For edible-pod/snow-type harvest, pick pods while they’re flat and the peas are just swelling—use them soon after picking for best sweetness.