Planting peas in a block

Planting Peas in Wide Rows or Blocks for Maximum Yield

ByStephen Albert

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Planting peas in wide rows or blocks is a proven method to increase yields and simplify garden maintenance. As a lifelong gardener, I’ve used this technique for decades to grow abundant, healthy pea crops. By grouping plants closely in a broad band instead of narrow rows, you can maximize space, improve soil moisture retention, and reduce weeding effort.

Why Wide Rows or Blocks Work

  • Higher Yields: More plants fit into the same garden footprint.
  • Improved Moisture: Closely planted peas shade the soil, reducing evaporation.
  • Better Support: Plants naturally lean on each other, minimizing the need for individual staking.
  • Efficient Harvesting: Peas grown in blocks are easier to pick from all sides.

Step-by-Step Planting Guide

  1. Prepare the Bed: Choose a sunny location with rich, well-drained soil. Work in compost for fertility.
  2. Mark the Area: Create a bed 12–18 inches wide for small blocks or up to 3 feet for larger beds.
  3. Sow Seeds: Scatter or line seeds 1–2 inches apart within the block, covering with 1 inch of soil.
  4. Water Evenly: Keep soil consistently moist until germination and during flowering.
  5. Add Support: For tall varieties, set up a trellis or pea netting along the center of the block.

My Experience and Tips

In my raised beds, planting peas in 18-inch-wide rows delivers noticeably bigger harvests than single rows. I recommend mulching with straw to keep weeds down and watering deeply once a week to encourage strong root growth. Bush types thrive in wide bands, while climbing varieties benefit from a central trellis for easy picking.

Harvest and Care

Pick pods frequently to encourage continuous flowering. Feed with compost tea or a balanced organic fertilizer when plants begin to bloom.

Planting peas in wide rows or blocks is a simple, time-tested way to get the most from your garden space while producing delicious, abundant harvests all season long.

Peas Growing Hub

Start here: The Ultimate Peas Growing Guide: From Seed to Harvest

Pea Basics & Types

Planting & Site Prep

Care & Maintenance

Pollination, Pests & Diseases

Harvest & Beyond

Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.

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