Sweet Pea

Sweet peas, also known as Lathyrus odoratus, are annual climbing flowers belonging to the Fabaceae family. Originally from the Mediterranean basin, they are highly prized for their delicate fragrance and their magnificent flowers.

Sweet peas come in a wide range of colors ranging from pure white to dark purple, including pink, red, purple and blue. Their flowers resemble small butterflies and give off a sweet and intoxicating scent, making them ideal plants for scenting the garden.

To grow sweet peas, it is recommended to plant them in a sunny, well-drained location with light afternoon shade. These plants prefer soils rich in organic matter and slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. It is advisable to sow them directly in the ground in spring, once all risk of frost has passed.

It is also possible to start sweet peas indoors, about 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost, by planting them in pots filled with light potting soil. Once the seedlings are established, they can be transplanted into the garden.

Sweet peas need supports to climb, such as trellises, pergolas or fences. It is important to guide them regularly so that they can hang on and climb easily.

Sweet peas usually begin flowering about 12 to 14 weeks after sowing. The flowers appear in delicate, fragrant clusters, and continue to bloom throughout the summer season, until the first frost.

To prolong the flowering of sweet peas, it is advisable to regularly cut off the faded flowers. This will encourage the plant to produce new buds and continue flowering throughout the season.

In conclusion, sweet peas are beautiful and fragrant plants that will bring a touch of elegance and romance to any garden. They are relatively easy to grow, provided you provide them with the right growing conditions.