Growing snow peas can be a rewarding endeavour, but it can also be frustrating when your plants keep dying, especially during winter. Understanding the common issues and how to address them can help you ensure a healthy crop. Here are some key reasons why your snow peas might be struggling in the colder months:
1. Cold Sensitivity
Snow peas are cool-weather crops, but they are not frost-tolerant. Exposure to freezing temperatures can damage or kill the plants. In the Southern Highlands of NSW, where winter temperatures can drop significantly, snow peas need protection from frost.
Solution:
- Frost Protection: Use row covers, cloches, or frost blankets to shield your snow peas from freezing temperatures.
- Planting Time: Consider planting your snow peas in late winter or early spring, when the risk of frost is lower.
2. Watering Issues
Both overwatering and underwatering can cause snow peas to die. During winter, the soil may retain moisture for longer periods, leading to waterlogged roots and root rot.
Solution:
- Drainage: Ensure your soil has good drainage. Raised beds can help prevent waterlogging.
- Watering Schedule: Water sparingly in winter. Check the soil moisture before watering to avoid overwatering.
3. Poor Soil Conditions
Snow peas thrive in well-drained, fertile soil. Poor soil quality, low nutrients, or inappropriate pH levels can hinder their growth.
Solution:
- Soil Preparation: Before planting, amend your soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility.
- Soil pH: Snow peas prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Test your soil and adjust the pH if necessary.
4. Lack of Sunlight
Winter days are shorter, and the intensity of sunlight is lower, which can affect the growth of snow peas.
Solution:
- Sunlight Exposure: Plant your snow peas in a location that receives maximum sunlight during winter.
- Artificial Light: In extreme cases, you might consider using grow lights to supplement natural sunlight.
5. Pests and Diseases
Winter can bring about various pests and diseases that can affect snow peas. Common issues include aphids, powdery mildew, and fungal infections.
Solution:
- Pest Control: Regularly inspect your plants for pests. Use organic insecticides or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs.
- Disease Management: Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal diseases. Remove any infected plant material promptly.
6. Temperature Fluctuations
Sudden changes in temperature can stress snow peas, leading to poor growth or death. Winter weather can be unpredictable, with warm days followed by cold nights.
Solution:
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture.
- Consistent Care: Monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to protect your plants during cold snaps.
7. Extended Periods of Heavy Rain
Prolonged heavy rainfall can saturate the soil, leading to poor root health and increased risk of disease. Snow peas do not thrive in waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot and other fungal issues.
Solution:
- Soil Drainage: Ensure your planting area has excellent drainage. Raised beds or mounded rows can help excess water drain away from the root zone.
- Covering Plants: Use row covers or temporary shelters to protect plants from excessive rain. This can also help maintain optimal soil moisture levels.
- Monitor Soil Moisture: After heavy rains, check the soil around your plants. If it remains waterlogged, consider temporarily relocating your plants to pots with better drainage until conditions improve.
Growing snow peas in winter can be challenging, but with the right care and attention, you can overcome these common issues. By protecting your plants from frost, ensuring proper watering, improving soil conditions, maximising sunlight exposure, managing pests and diseases, mitigating temperature fluctuations, and managing heavy rainfall, you can help your snow peas thrive even during the colder months.
At home with Mrs E 