Thompson & Morgan Sweet Pea Purple Pimpernel

Sow sweet pea seeds indoors in October for transplanting outdoors in spring, or direct sow outdoors from March to April.

In autumn, sow 3 seeds per 7.5cm (3") pot at a depth of 1cm (1/2") in free-draining, seed sowing compost. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a plastic bag at a temperature of 20-25C (68-77F) until germination which takes 10-21 days. Once germinated, grow sweet peas on in cooler conditions, before transferring to a cold frame for overwintering. Spring sowings can be made outdoors directly into drills at a depth of 2.5cm (1"), and a distance of 7.5cm (3") apart. Pinch out the growing points of each stem once the second pair of leaves has opened to encourage bushier growth.

In spring, plant out sweet peas at a distance of 23cm (9") apart in any well drained garden soil in full sun. Train the stems onto a suitable support such as trellis or a free standing climbing frame. Try using our sweet pea support rings to tie the stems to their growing supports while they become established.

Feed and water sweet peas regularly throughout the growing season. When growing sweet peas it is essential to cut the flower stems frequently and deadhead faded blooms to prevent seedpods developing. This will encourage more blooms to be produced and extend the flowering period throughout summer.

Caution: Seeds are harmful if eaten.