Michigan State University Extension
Ornamental Plants plus Version 3.0 - 00000832
11/12/99
Lathyrus odoratus--Sweet Pea
Height: 6 ft Spacing: 12 in
Type: annual
Flowers: Blue, pink, purple, red, white
Comments: Sweet Pea often produces fragrant (Vis. 1) flowers
but not always. The height listed is for vining types, bush
types will usually grow to 30 inches. The plants like cool
temperatures so may suffer during hot, dry summer weather.
The plants need regular watering in summer for best growth.
A mulch will help keep the roots cool. Remove old blossoms
as they fade to keep the plant flowering. The plants are a
good source of cut flowers. For vining types, tie each stem
to a support and remove tendrils and side shoots. Sweet Pea
prefers a cool, moist, well-drained soil rich in humus.
Gardeners with alkaline soil may find the plant a suitable
choice.
Propagation: The seed germinates in two weeks at 55
degrees and soaking may hasten germination. Plant the
seed two inches deep and thin to six inches apart when the
plants are three to four inches high.
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This file was generated from data base ZZ on 01/19/00.
Data base ZZ was last revised on 11/12/99.
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