Best Planting Times for Sugar Snap Peas in Vermont

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingDirect sow seedsApril 15 – May 15
HarvestJune 20 – July 15
Greenhouse PlantingStart seeds indoorsFebruary 15 – March 15

Planting Conditions

Sugar Snap Peas Planting Conditions

Vermont’s cool and temperate climate with USDA Hardiness Zones ranging from 3b to 5b provides an excellent environment for growing sugar snap peas, particularly during the spring when the soil is still cool.

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Useful Tools for Starting Sugar Snap Peas Indoors

Using the right tools can save you time and increase your success rate.

Seeds

Quality seeds lead to better germination and healthier plants. Starting with high-quality seeds gives your sugar snap peas the best chance to thrive from the very beginning.
Sugar Snap Peas Seeds
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Planting Trays

Planting trays help you organize your seedlings and ensure they have enough space to grow before you transplant them outdoors. This makes the process more efficient and increases the chances of strong, healthy plants.
Planting Trays Image
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Grow Lights

Grow lights are essential if you don’t have enough natural sunlight. They provide your seedlings with the light they need to grow strong and healthy, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Grow Lights Image
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Seed Starting Soil

Using light, fine soil specifically designed for seed starting helps young roots establish quickly and promotes healthy growth. It’s an easy way to give your seedlings the best start possible.
Seed Starting Soil Image
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Greenhouse Growing

In Vermont, using a greenhouse can significantly extend your growing season for sugar snap peas. It protects the plants from late frosts and other harsh weather conditions while allowing for earlier planting and a more controlled environment for optimal growth.

Consider investing in a 10×12 FT Greenhouse priced at $1,199 to ensure your sugar snap peas thrive in a controlled environment.
Greenhouse Image 1
Greenhouse Image 2
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Fertilizer

For optimal sugar snap pea growth in Vermont, supplementing with fertilizer can ensure abundant and healthy harvests. Quality fertilizer helps replenish nutrients in the soil and promotes vigorous plant growth.
Fertilizer Image
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Plant sugar snap peas outdoors in Vermont approximately 2-4 weeks before the last spring frost date for the best yield.

Average Last Frost Dates for Vermont’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
BurlingtonMay 14
MontpelierMay 19
StoweMay 17
BrattleboroMay 18
South BurlingtonMay 15

Disclaimer: Frost dates are average estimates, and actual conditions may vary. It is recommended to monitor local forecasts and adapt planting decisions accordingly.

Other planting guides for Vermont:

Broccoli Planting in Vermont

Kale Planting in Vermont

Pumpkin Planting in Vermont

Any questions on growing cucumbers? Visit our forum to discuss: Growing Cucumbers Forum.

Starting Sugar Snap Peas Indoors

In Vermont (Zone 5a), begin indoor sugar snap pea seed starting between March 15 and April 15. This timeline ensures robust seedlings that can be transplanted outdoors starting from early May, once the soil is workable and the risk of frost diminishes.

Transplanting Sugar Snap Pea Seedlings

Transplant sugar snap pea seedlings outdoors from May 1 to May 15. Ensure the soil temperature is around 45°F or above for optimal growth. Space the seedlings 2-4 inches apart in rows that are at least 18-24 inches apart, allowing for proper air circulation and growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Provide regular watering, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Vermont’s variable weather requires attention to soil moisture levels.
  • Water at the base of the plants to prevent wetting the foliage, which helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

  • Work compost into the soil before planting for improved fertility. You may also apply a balanced fertilizer at the time of planting to support healthy growth.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Keep an eye out for common pests such as aphids and pea weevils. The moist climate of Vermont can encourage fungal diseases, so monitoring is crucial.
  • Utilize organic pest control methods and crop rotation to manage pests and reduce disease incidence effectively.

Harvesting

  • Harvest sugar snap peas when they are plump but still tender. Regular harvesting can encourage continuous pod production throughout the growing season.

The importance of Sugar Snap Peas

Sugar Snap Peas are a delicious and nutritious addition to any garden. They are a hybrid of snow peas and garden peas, known for their sweet flavor and crunchy texture. These peas are best enjoyed fresh, raw, or lightly cooked, and are packed with vitamins A, C, K, and fiber. They are also relatively easy to grow, making them a favorite among home gardeners.


In my garden I try to compost as much as possible, so I can mix in the nutrient-rich compost into my soil. I use both hot composting of food scraps and cold composting of all organic garden “waste”.
If you don’t have the time or space for composting, it is possible to get compost ready to use in garden centers and Community Composting.
You can read more on Community Composting here: https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/community-composting

If you are uncertain of the quality of your soil, you can get easy-to-use soil tests at Amazon for 17 dollars. Check latest prices here: Soil testing kit.

Also remember to check out how much sunlight your growing area gets, and that the rain drains well. If you treat your soil well and plan your crops according to your climate you will succeed with any plant you want.

The satisfaction when you harvest your own produce is well worth the time you put in 🙂

BeeJay
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