Best Planting Times for Sugar Snap Peas in Oregon

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

Planting Conditions

Oregon’s mild climate is ideal for growing sugar snap peas, with USDA Hardiness Zones mostly ranging from 6b to 9a. These conditions allow for a timely planting season and fruitful harvests for sugar snap peas.


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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.

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.
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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
Get Seed Starting Soil on Amazon


Starting Sugar Snap Peas Indoors

Plant sugar snap peas outdoors in Oregon approximately 1-2 weeks before the last frost date, ensuring the soil is cool enough for optimal growth.

In Oregon (Zone 8), start indoor sugar snap peas seed starting in late February to early March. This timeline ensures robust seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation by mid-April when the soil can be worked after the last frost.

Average Last Frost Dates for Oregon’s Major Cities

City Average Last Frost Date
Portland April 15
Eugene April 20
Salem April 10
Beaverton April 18
Gresham April 16

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 Oregon:

Broccoli Planting in Oregon

Kale Planting in Oregon

Pumpkin Planting in Oregon

Tomato Planting in Oregon

Transplanting Sugar Snap Pea Seedlings

Transplant sugar snap pea seedlings outdoors from mid-April to early May, ensuring the soil temperature is consistently above 45°F. Space seedlings 2-4 inches apart in rows that are 18-24 inches apart for optimal growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

    • Provide consistent and deep watering to ensure the soil remains moist. Oregon’s weather can vary, so adjust watering based on rainfall.

    • Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the leaves, which can help prevent fungal issues.

Fertilizing

    • Apply a balanced organic fertilizer when planting and again when flowering begins. Incorporating compost before planting can improve soil structure and nutrient levels.

Pest and Disease Management

    • Regularly check for common pests like aphids and slugs. Early detection is key to managing infestations effectively.

    • Utilize organic pest control methods and promote beneficial insects to help manage pests.

Harvesting

    • Harvest sugar snap peas when they are plump and crisp. Frequent harvesting encourages more production and prevents overripening.

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 organicrich organic matter that plants need to thrive.

In my garden I try to compost as mutch as possible, so I can mix in the nutrient ritch compost in my soil. I use both hot composting of food scraps and cold composting of all organic garden “waste”..
If you dont 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 you 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 🙂

 

FAQ

 
Q: Can I plant sugar snap peas in the fall in Oregon?

A: Yes, you can plant sugar snap peas in late summer to early fall, typically between late July and early September, to ensure they mature before the first frost.

Q: What soil temperature is ideal for planting sugar snap peas?

A: Soil temperatures should be at least 45°F (7°C) for planting sugar snap peas.

Q: What type of soil is best for sugar snap peas?

A: Sugar snap peas thrive in well-draining soil rich in organic matter, with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.

Q: Should I provide support for sugar snap peas as they grow?

A: Yes, sugar snap peas need support such as a trellis or fencing to grow upright and healthy.

Q: How do I prevent pests and diseases in my sugar snap pea plants?

A: To manage pests like pea weevils and aphids, use neem oil or insecticidal soap. Avoid overhead watering to prevent powdery mildew.

Q: How far apart should I plant sugar snap peas?

A: Plant sugar snap peas about 1-2 inches apart and 1-2 inches deep.

 

BeeJay