Question
Hi Mike,

Thank you for taking my question: It抯 about Peas.

I live in S. New Hampshire and I planted my peas in late April. They grew nice and looked very healthy through May and then they started to blossom in June. About one week after they began to blossom, though, I noticed that some of the upper or top leaves are curling upward with some brown discoloration.

Any ideas?

Thanks,

Phil  

Answer
Phil, peas are a short season crop which thrives in cooler weather. They normally blossom in early June, have one large harvest, and then die off once the weather turns hot.

When the foliage turns brown or curls prematurely, it is usually an indication of either too much water or excessive fertilizer. Excess water in the soil causes the roots to be saturated. This results in the plants not being able to absorb oxygen and nutrients. Excess fertilizer can burn the roots, resulting in the same symptoms.

If the condition is light, I would not worry too much since it normally corrects itself. If, however, the condition is spreading, the root system probably has been compromised.

Next year, be sure to limit watering to one inch per week. I also recommend mulching the plants with straw or dried grass clippings to hold in the moisture, which means you can water less often. I also would add an inoculant powder to the soil. This product is available at most garden centers or through the following links. This will enhance the plant's ability to take in nutrients and increase your harvest.

http://www.planetnatural.com/site/soil-inoculant.html

http://www.planetnatural.com/planetnatural/images/soil-inoculant-label.pdf

I hope this information helps. Please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Regards,

Mike