Pea varities

Discussion in 'Edible Gardening' started by Greecko, Feb 15, 2024.

  1. Greecko

    Greecko Gardener

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    I'm just looking to grow some bog standard peas in a pod. Im in zone 9, Northern Ireland so watering isn't an issue but more so sunshine and damper conditions!

    Every packet sounds great. I have beds ready and have supports a plenty. What have folks found to be a good high yielder that still tastes great? Im lucky to have my own Butchers shop and last time I grew some customers went mad for them! Im not out to get rich but I find it keeps an interest as I enjoy the graft and being in the garden more than eating it haha.

    All recommendations and growing tips appreciated!
     
  2. pete

    pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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    I haven't grown peas for years but the one I always grew was Hurst green shaft.
    There many be better newer varieties nowadays.
     
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    • Greecko

      Greecko Gardener

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      It seems to be a very popular one so may stick with it Pete!
       
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      • pete

        pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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        Long pods with sweet peas.
         
      • JWK

        JWK Gardener Staff Member

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        I worked for Hursts in the 70s, Green Shaft is still my favourite for taste after over 50 years of growing it I haven't found a better one.
         
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        • infradig

          infradig Total Gardener

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          But Greenshaft from Hurst Gunson Cooper Taber had 10 equal sized peas in every pod, how do they do that!
           
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          • infradig

            infradig Total Gardener

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            If you were sales rep in Surrey, we have met.
             
          • JWK

            JWK Gardener Staff Member

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            I wasn't in sales @infradig I was based in East anglia looking after our seed growers
             
          • Greecko

            Greecko Gardener

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            Thanks JWK it seems to be the one to go for. Is it the same variety then "big" pea growers use or is there more commercial focused peas for canning?
             
          • JWK

            JWK Gardener Staff Member

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            I've no experience with canning peas, I like mine off the vine fresh.

            Hurst green shaft is no longer grown commercially but Terrain is, I've grown that with good results. It's about the only pea you can buy as an amateur that farmers also grow.
             
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            • pete

              pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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              Back in the 80s we had a local pea farmer, ( famous for cutting down trees and ripping up hedgerows), and you could go to his farm to buy loose podded peas, idea for freezing it said.

              They turned out to be those hard as bullet type peas that were probably more suitable for canning or mushy peas, big round ones, not wrinkled, like we normally grow in gardens.
               
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