Garden tip: Plant peas in February

Peas are a cool season crop planted in November and February. While November has past, February is a good month to plant peas that will mature in early spring. Three types of peas are grown by home gardeners.

Garden peas must be shelled because of their tough inner lining.

Snow peas, also called sugar peas, are great because they have edible pods.

Snap peas became popular in 1979 when a breeder discovered them in a trial planting. Their crisp, edible pods are both tender and sweet.

Peas need well-drained soil and some nitrogen fertilizer during seed planting. Supports or staking should be established by the time the peas are 3 inches tall. It will take eight to 10 weeks for the pods to be produced. Enjoy!

— Katie Martin, UC Marin Master Gardeners