Organic 'Dwarf Gray Sugar' Snow Peas

Organic 'Dwarf Grey Sugar' snap peas (Pisum sativum) from seed producer Gaia, an old heritage variety with tender pods and attractive flowers

The 'Dwarf Grey Sugar' snap pea, cultivated since 1773 , is one of the oldest heirloom varieties still in cultivation. Its flat , fleshy , slightly curved , light-colored pods measure 2.5 to 3 inches, offering a crisp texture and a vegetal sweetness appreciated in both fresh dishes and stir-fries. Despite its name, the variety is a vigorous , bushy vine that can reach up to 150 cm in height, benefiting from light trellising to optimize harvest. Its delicate, purplish-pink flowers attract pollinators and add ornamental charm to the vegetable garden. An heirloom variety from the historic grower DM Ferry and Company, it combines hardiness, productivity, and historical value.

Versatile, decorative and tasty, this pea has endured through the centuries without losing its appeal.

Companion plants : Beans, Carrot, Corn, Cucumber, Eggplant, Pepper, Radish, Spinach, Tomato, Turnip, Mint
Enemy plants : Alliums

Spread/Habit : Bushy vine
Plant height : 120 to 150 cm
Quantity per packet : 50 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Variety from 1773, flat and fleshy pods 2.5–3 in, attractive flowers, 5 ft vine, heirloom DM Ferry and Co.

Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Tender, crunchy, sweet
Cold tolerance : Down to -9.5 °C

Farming method

Soak the seeds for a maximum of 8 hours to improve germination, then sow directly outdoors at a depth of 2.5 cm . Space plants 15 cm apart and rows 30 to 45 cm apart. Germination occurs in seven to twenty-one days at temperatures between 4 and 20°C , with an optimum of 15°C . This variety can also be sown in late summer for an autumn harvest. Provide partial sun/partial shade (level 2) and consistent watering (level 2). Light trellising helps support the bushy vine and facilitates harvesting.

Harvesting and preservation

Harvest the flat, immature pods before the seeds develop. Harvesting every two days helps maintain their tenderness and crispness. The peas can be eaten whole or shelled like garden peas. Store the pods at 1 to 2°C for about a week.

Usage ideas

• In quick stir-fries , where the fleshy pods retain their texture well
• In fresh salads for a crunchy, sweet touch
• Lightly steamed
• As an accompaniment to Asian or vegetarian dishes
• Raw to enjoy their delicate flavor

The 'Dwarf Grey Sugar' pea combines heritage, floral beauty, and tender flavor. Its vigor, old-fashioned charm, and excellent culinary qualities make it an essential variety for gardeners who love classic, robust peas.