Bingo Semi-climbing Pea

Pisum sativum 'Bingo' is an early and productive semi-leafless variety. The 80cm (31in) plants produce dark green pods filled with 8 peas on average. This variety is resistant to root rot and powdery mildew. It is suitable for growing in the garden or in containers, making it ideal for smaller growing spaces. Sow from March to June and harvest from June to September.

Pisum sativum is a popular annual vegetable belonging to the Fabaceae family, grown for its edible pods and/or peas. The wild pea is thought to originate from the Mediterranean basin and the Near East. It is one of the oldest cultivated crops in Europe and Asia and is now a staple food worldwide. Peas were originally grown for their dry seeds that were crushed before cooking. The consumption of fresh, immature peas became increasingly popular during the 17th and 18th centuries. This resulted in the selection of new cultivars in England and America, a number of which are still around today. Cultivated peas fall into three main categories:

- Garden or English peas produce plump, round seeds in tough fibrous pods. There is an enormous amount of varieties to choose from, from smooth spring peas to later-maturing wrinkled peas. All peas in this category need to be shelled.

- Mangetout or snow peas are grown for their edible flat and tender pods that are picked before the seeds are fully formed. They are commonly used in Chinese cuisine.

- Sugar snap peas look similar to garden peas. They are grown for their thick, tasty pods and full-sized peas and are best harvested young.

Depending on the variety, pea plants have a dwarf or climbing growth habit. Climbing peas are generally more productive, but they require a support such as a trellis or wigwam to scramble up as they can easily reach 2m (7ft) in height. Dwarf varieties will make do with pea netting or short sticks. More recent varieties are self-supporting as most of the leaves have been replaced with tendrils.

Although often considered a spring crop, peas can be harvested all summer long. Start the year with smooth peas as these are particularly early-maturing and resistant to cold, damp weather conditions. They can be sown under cover as early as February. Then move on to wrinkled varieties for later sowings. These sweet-tasting peas have a much better tolerance to heat and can be harvested over a long period of time.

Peas are packed full of nutrients. They contain high levels of starch, fibre, minerals and vitamins, including C and B9. They are also an excellent source of vegetable protein. Peas can be eaten both raw and cooked. They are a real treat eaten straight off the plant or lightly steamed as an accompaniment to meat and fish dishes.

Peas enjoy cool, humid climates. They dread extreme weather conditions such as excessively hot or cold temperatures, too little or too much water etc. as this weakens the plant and makes it sensitive to powdery mildew. Pea moths can also cause considerable damage to crops. This can be prevented by covering your plants with insect mesh during the flight period.

Harvest: peas are harvested between 2.5 and 4 months after sowing, depending on the variety. Harvest regularly to stimulate fruit production and be aware that, if left too long, peas and pods will lose their sweetness and turn tough. Garden peas should be picked when the pods feel nice and full. Mangetout and snap peas are harvested just as the seeds start to appear.

Storage: fresh unshelled peas will keep for several days in the fridge. They can also be blanched then frozen for later use.

Good to know: like all members of the Fabaceae family, peas are nitrogen-fixing plants. They are often used in crop rotations to enrich the soil before or after plants that require lots of nitrogen to grow.