Shelling peas 'Green Arrow' organic

Organic shelling peas 'Green Arrow' (Pisum sativum) from the seed company Gaia, a productive and tasty variety

Shelling Pea 'Green Arrow' is an heirloom variety known for its high yield and large, generously filled pods . Each 4- to 5-inch (10-13 cm) pod contains 10 to 11 tender, sweet peas , perfect for freezing and winter soups . This variety is especially prized for its resistance to late blight and fusarium wilt , making it a reliable and easy-to-grow choice. It is prized for its rich flavor and firm texture, ideal for fresh or processed consumption .

Did you know?

The 'Green Arrow' pea is a cold-resistant variety, able to tolerate up to -9.5°C . Its relatively short growing cycle makes it ideal for a spring or autumn harvest , avoiding the high heat that is detrimental to its production.

Spread: Climbing and productive port
Plant height: 60 to 75 cm
Quantity per pack: ± 100 seeds
Companion plants: Beans, carrot, corn, cucumber, eggplant, peppers, radish, spinach, tomato, turnip, mint
Enemy plants: Alliums (garlic, onion, shallot, leek)

Cultivation method

Direct sowing is recommended as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring. Soak seeds in warm water for 8 hours before sowing to speed up germination , but do not exceed this time. Sow 2.5 cm (1") deep , spacing plants 2.5 to 5 cm (1-2") apart and rows 30 to 45 cm (12-18") apart . For a fall crop , sow in late summer , avoiding hot, dry periods which are not conducive to good growth.

Harvesting and storage

Harvest when the pods are well filled , but before they become too hard. Regular picking helps stimulate production and prolong the harvest. Peas will keep for about a week in the refrigerator , at 1-2°C .

Ideas for use in the garden and kitchen

• Combine it with companion vegetables to naturally enrich the soil with nitrogen.
• Eat it fresh or blanched , alone or in a crunchy salad.
• Add it to soups and stews for a touch of sweetness.
• Freeze it after blanching to enjoy its freshness all winter long.

How to freeze 'Green Arrow' shelling peas to preserve their freshness?

Freezing is a great way to preserve peas while retaining their sweet flavor and crunchy texture .

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Shell the peas

• Harvest the full pods and open them to collect the peas.
• Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or residue.

2. Blanch the peas (essential step to preserve their color and texture)

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
• Dip the peas in boiling water for 90 seconds (1 min 30 sec) .
• Prepare a large bowl of ice water and immediately transfer the blanched peas into it to stop the cooking .
• Let them cool for about 2 minutes , then drain them well.

3. Prepare for freezing

• Spread the peas on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper without them touching (this prevents them from sticking together).
• Place the tray in the freezer for 1 to 2 hours , until the peas are very hard.

4. Storage and preservation

• Transfer the peas to airtight freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Write the freezing date on the bag.
• Store them in the freezer at -18°C , where they will stay fresh for up to 12 months .

5. Using frozen peas

• Do not defrost before use ! Add them directly to your dishes:
  • In soups and stews: add them at the end of cooking.
  • For steam cooking: cook them for 3 to 5 minutes .
  • Sautéed: add them directly to a pan with a little oil.

With its exceptional yield , disease resistance and sweet flavor , the 'Green Arrow' Shelling Pea is a garden classic , perfect for a bountiful and tasty harvest !