Legumes

How to Grow Peas in Containers

Growing peas in containers is an easy, space-saving way to enjoy fresh, sweet harvests—even if you don’t have a garden. After years of container gardening, I’ve learned that with the right pot, soil, and care, peas thrive on patios, balconies, and small backyards. Here’s my complete guide to growing healthy, productive peas in pots.

Table of Contents

Choose the Right Container

Select a container at least 12 inches deep and wide enough to support several plants. Larger pots hold more soil, which retains moisture and nutrients better. Ensure the container has good drainage holes to prevent root rot.

Select Suitable Pea Varieties

Dwarf and bush peas—such as ‘Little Marvel,’ ‘Sugar Ann,’ and ‘Tom Thumb’—are ideal for containers because they stay compact. Tall varieties can also be grown with proper support but require deeper pots and strong trellises.

Use Quality Potting Mix

Fill containers with a high-quality, well-draining potting mix enriched with compost. Avoid garden soil, which can compact and hinder root growth.

Planting

Sow seeds about 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart. Plant early in spring or late summer for cool-season harvests. Peas prefer temperatures between 40°F and 75°F.

Support for Climbing Varieties

Provide a trellis, bamboo teepee, or netting for climbing peas. Secure supports before planting to avoid damaging roots later.

Watering and Feeding

Keep soil evenly moist, watering whenever the top inch feels dry. Mulch with shredded leaves or straw to retain moisture. Peas fix their own nitrogen, so avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers; instead, use a balanced organic fertilizer at flowering to support pod development.

Harvesting

Pick pods when they are plump but still tender. Regular harvesting encourages continued production and sweeter peas.

My Experience

In my Sonoma Valley garden, I’ve grown peas in pots for years with excellent results. Consistent watering, quality soil, and early planting are the keys to a heavy harvest. Whether you’re gardening on a balcony or patio, container-grown peas can be just as productive as those grown in the ground.

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

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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