code: 620
A profusion of rose/white bicolor flowers
Family: Leguminosae
Plant Classification: Hardy annual
Packet Content(approx.): 25
A lovely old-fashioned heirloom variety dating back to 1737. A profusion of rose/white bicolor flowers which are smaller than those of modern forms, but this is more than compensated for by their entrancing perfume.
Sowing advice:
Sow autumn in cold greenhouse or late winter/early spring in warm greenhouse, propagator, or windowsill for late spring planting. Alternatively sow outdoors March-April.
EASIEST TO START OUTDOORS:
Sweet peas must have well drained soil, so dig deeply and enrich with aged manure or compost before sowing seeds. Erect a well-anchored trellis, vertical netting, or other support for vines before planting. Sow seeds in full sun in cool early spring weather as early as the ground can be worked. In mild winter areas, where the ground does not freeze, seeds can also be planted in fall to form strong root systems, then overwinter to bloom strongly in spring. Plant sweet pea seeds 1 inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart. When seedlings are 2 inches tall, thin them 4 to 5 inches apart, to allow plants room to mature.
GROWING NOTES:
Sweet peas bloom best before the weather gets too hot, so if spring planting, sow as soon as ground can be worked. Where summer heat comes on fast, they will appreciate a spot with afternoon shade. Anchor supports well as vines will grow heavy with bloom. Protect seedlings from birds, slugs, and snails. Mulch and keep well watered. For longest bloom, pick flowers often and keep faded blossoms cut.
Lathyrus odoratus. The beauty of this bicolour heirloom variety has kept it in cultivation since the 1730s. Painted Lady sweet pea seeds are one of the original cultivars from the Cupani strain. Growing 1.5-2m (5-6′) tall, it has exquisite, highly scented pink and white petals on long stems for cutting. These Ladies prefer cooler weather, so try planting them in early spring, while there is still a risk of frost at night. And plan to provide the support of a trellis, flower net, or other structure so the long climbing vines have something to hold onto as the grow.
