Best Planting Times for Sugar Snap Peas in Washington

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingMarch 15 – 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

Washington’s climate ranges from mild coastal conditions to cooler mountainous areas. With USDA Hardiness Zones spanning from 5a to 9b, planting sugar snap peas requires attention to local frost dates and temperatures.

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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 Washington, where temperatures can vary significantly, a greenhouse provides a controlled environment for sugar snap peas, allowing for earlier planting and longer growing periods. Greenhouses help protect plants from unexpected frost and pests, ensuring a healthier crop.

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 peas growth in Washington, supplementing with fertilizer can help ensure abundant and healthy harvests. Quality fertilizer replenishes nutrients in the soil and promotes vigorous plant growth.
Fertilizer Image
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Plant sugar snap peas outdoors in Washington approximately 1-2 weeks before the last spring frost date, ensuring the soil is warm enough for optimal growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for Washington’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
SeattleApril 5
SpokaneApril 15
TacomaApril 8
VancouverApril 14
BellevueApril 7

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 Washington:

Broccoli Planting in Washington

Kale Planting in Washington

Pumpkin Planting in Washington

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

Starting Sugar Snap Peas Indoors

In Washington (Zone 7a), begin indoor sugar snap pea seed starting between February 15 and March 15. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from mid-March to early April when the soil is workable and frost has passed.

Transplanting Sugar Snap Pea Seedlings

Transplant sugar snap pea seedlings outdoors from March 15 to April 15. It’s crucial to plant them in well-draining soil, ideally when daytime temperatures reach 50°F consistently. Space the seedlings 2-4 inches apart in rows spaced 18-24 inches apart for optimal growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Washington’s climate can vary, so monitor soil moisture regularly to prevent drying out.
  • Water at the base of the plants to prevent fungal diseases and encourage strong root development.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer after transplanting and again as the plants begin to flower. Utilizing compost or well-rotted manure can significantly improve soil health and nutrient availability.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids and leaf miners. Washington’s moisture can attract certain pests, so regular checks are essential.
  • Implement organic pest control techniques and promote the use of beneficial insects to manage pest populations effectively.

Harvesting

  • Harvest sugar snap peas when they are firm, crisp, and bright green. Regular harvesting encourages continued production and prevents over-maturity.

The importance of Sugar Snap Peas

Sugar Snap Peas are a delightful, sweet variety of peas that are particularly appealing to gardeners and cooks alike. They are a cross between snow peas and garden peas, offering a crisp pod that can be eaten whole. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as dietary fiber, sugar snap peas are not only tasty but also nutritious.


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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