How to grow Sugar Snap Pea in the UK
Pisum sativum
Sugar Snap Pea (Pisum sativum) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Eat the whole pod — sweetest of all peas. Pick young and often. This guide covers when and how to sow Sugar Snap Pea, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Sugar Snap Pea
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar Sow | Apr Sow | May | Jun Harvest | Jul Harvest | Aug Harvest | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, free-draining soil enriched with garden compost
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.0 (neutral)
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 4 cm
- Spacing
- 7 cm apart in double rows
- Sowing
- Sow Mar–Jun; support with netting
- Growing
- Keep weed-free and evenly watered; mulch to hold moisture
- Harvest & upkeep
- Eat whole pods when plump but still crisp
- Watch for
- Pea moth, mice, mildew
Companion planting for Sugar Snap Pea
Grows well with:
Keep apart from:
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Sugar Snap Pea FAQs
When should I sow Sugar Snap Pea in the UK?
In the UK, sow Sugar Snap Pea in March, April. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Sugar Snap Pea?
Sugar Snap Pea grows well alongside Rosemary, Summer Savory. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
What should you not plant near Sugar Snap Pea?
Keep Sugar Snap Pea away from Chives, Florence Fennel, Fennel, Garlic, Leek, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Sugar Snap Pea need?
Sugar Snap Pea prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Sugar Snap Pea ready to harvest?
Sugar Snap Pea is typically ready to harvest in June, July, August in the UK.
Is Sugar Snap Pea easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Eat the whole pod — sweetest of all peas. Pick young and often.