Sweet Pea - Azureus

Azureus is a rare and unique variety that produces a profusion of delicate, almost tropical-looking blooms in a breathtaking cobalt-blue shade. Growing on long, vining stems, its striking colour and feathery foliage make it a standout choice for trellises and fences in the garden. Unlike many other sweet peas, this variety is relatively drought-tolerant. While individual flowers are too short for cutting, the full vining stems are stunning when woven into floral arrangements, adding a touch of elegance and charm.

12 seeds minimum.

CAUTION: Sweet peas, including the seeds are toxic. Do not eat.

PLANTING
Sweet peas grow best in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Choose a cool area of the garden with full sun or partial shade.

Sow Outdoors: Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring, as soon as the soil is workable, even before the last frost. The soil temperature should be around 10-15°C. Plant seeds 1 inch deep and 8 inches apart, and provide a trellis or stakes for the vines to climb.

Start Indoors: For an earlier start, sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Soak seeds overnight in water, keeping them away from light to soften their hard shells. Then plant them 1 inch deep in individual pots to avoid root disturbance during transplanting. Keep the pots in a cool, well-lit area, maintaining a temperature of 15-18°C. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they have at least two sets of true leaves, and the risk of frost has passed.

GROWING
Keep the soil relatively moist, especially during dry periods, but unlike other sweet peas, this variety is drought tolerant. Water at the base to prevent diseases, and mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize every 3-4 weeks with compost tea or organic fertilizer. Pinch off the growing tips when plants reach 6 inches to encourage bushier growth. Protect from slugs, rabbits, and deer.

HARVESTING
Harvest sweet peas in the morning when blooms are open and fragrant. Use clean snips and cut just above a set of leaves. Regularly cutting flowers and removing spent blooms encourages more blooms. Avoid harvesting during the heat of the day to prevent wilting.