Best Planting Times for Sugar Snap Peas in New York

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingMarch 1 – April 15
Transplant OutdoorsApril 15 – May 1
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

Sugar Snap Peas Planting Conditions

New York experiences a range of climates, often classified under USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 7. The varying conditions can affect the optimal timing and methods for planting sugar snap peas.

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Fertilizer

Other planting guides for New York:

Broccoli Planting in New York

Kale Planting in New York

Pumpkin Planting in New York

Tomato Planting in New York

Any questions on growing sugar snap peas? Visit our forum to discuss: Growing Sugar Snap Peas.

Greenhouse Growing

In New York, a greenhouse offers significant advantages for growing sugar snap peas. During the colder months, it provides a controlled climate that can protect plants from frost and temperature extremes, enabling you to start planting earlier in the season and extend the harvest period.

Fertilizer

For optimal growth of sugar snap peas in New York, consider using fertilizer to replenish nutrients in the soil. Fertilizing helps in promoting vigorous growth and improving overall yield.
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Plant sugar snap peas outdoors in New York approximately 2-4 weeks before the last spring frost date, allowing the soil temperature to warm sufficiently for optimal growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for New York’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
New York CityApril 10
BuffaloMay 5
RochesterMay 9
SyracuseMay 10
AlbanyMay 2

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

Starting Sugar Snap Peas Indoors

In New York (Zone 6a), begin indoor sugar snap pea seed starting between March 15 and April 15. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting in late April to early May when the soil temperature is above 45°F and the last frost date has passed.

Transplanting Sugar Snap Pea Seedlings

Transplant sugar snap pea seedlings outdoors from April 20 to May 5, ensuring the soil is workable and has warmed appropriately. Space the seedlings 2-4 inches apart in rows with at least 24-36 inches between rows for optimal growth.

Direct sow outdoors


I have had great success sowing the sugar snaps peas directly in the ground When its warm temperature forcast of rain coming. I put the seeds about a half inch down in the soil. The plants will start growing fast about a week after.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Provide consistent watering, especially during dry spells, to maintain evenly moist soil. New York’s varying climate requires careful monitoring of soil moisture levels.
  • Water at the base of plants to avoid wetting the leaves, which can lead to fungal infections.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and again when the plants begin flowering. Adding compost before planting can significantly improve soil fertility and structure.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly monitor for common pests like aphids and root maggots. Vigilance is crucial for maintaining healthy sugar snap pea plants.
  • Utilize organic or integrated pest management techniques to protect plants from infestations and diseases.

Harvesting

  • Harvest sugar snap peas when they are plump but before they start to dull in color. Regular harvesting encourages more pod production and keeps plants healthy.

Sugar Snap Peas

Sugar snap peas are a delicious and sweet variety of pea known for their edible pods. They are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, along with fiber and protein. Sugar snap peas are best enjoyed fresh or lightly cooked, making them a popular component in salads, stir-fries, and as a healthy snack. Growing sugar snap peas is relatively easy, as they thrive in cool weather and can be planted in early spring or fall.

The importance of good soil

Before starting to grow it is important to take a step back and find the condition of the soil in your garden, The optimal soil is a blend that includes the mineral-rich dirt along with organic-rich organic matter that plants need to thrive.


In my garden I try to compost as much as possible, so I can mix in the nutrient-rich compost in 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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