Pisum Sativum
DESCRIPTION
“Oliwkowa” means “olive,” which refers to the green color of these peas when dry. This is a great crop for Wisconsin because it tolerates cool and wet conditions that we have early in the spring. Also, it matures in about 65 days, which means the garden space can be used for something else later in the season.
PROVENANCE
This pea originates from the village of Przebędów in Poland. We acquired the seed from Truelove Seeds and it has been grown in Oshkosh since 2020.
GROWING RECOMMENDATIONS
Sow 1-inch deep in early spring as soon as ground can be worked. Needs support of 2-3 foot trellis or netting and protection from rabbits. If the early season is wet, slugs can be a problem for legume seedlings. See our guide to organic pest control.
SEED SAVING INSTRUCTIONS
Seed Saving procedures are same as harvesting, but do not grow within 25 feet of another pea (P. Sativum) if you want true-to-type seeds. For more information on seed saving from peas and other legumes, see our guide to legume species.
CULINARY USES
To cook the dry peas, soak overnight and simmer until tender or use a pressure cooker. This is a classic soup pea.
PRESERVING YOUR HARVEST
Preserving legumes couldn’t be easier. Just pack dry and shelled seeds into jars and tuck them away in a cool dark place. Or put them on display in your kitchen to remember the garden in winter!