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Asparagus Pea

Lotus tetragonolobus

INTRODUCTION

Rather confusingly, not related to the Pea or Asparagus, Asparagus Pea has its own identity.

You will probably find more references to this plant in your gardening library referring to its use as an ornamental than to its use as a vegetable. Yet it is as an orthodox, no gimmicks, eat-with-the-Sunday-roast veg as any other.

Not the heaviest cropping of the legume family, this crop is grown for its winged pods that must be harvested at an early stage to fully appreciate this vegetable at its best.

Soil Preparation

Asparagus Peas require well-drained, moderately fertile soil preferably in a sheltered position away from prevailing winds.

Prepare the ground by incorporating well-rotted manure or garden compost into the soil.

Asparagus Peas do not like to sit in wet soil but will struggle during drought conditions.

Sowing & Planting

Sowing can begin in early spring weather permitting. Soil temperatures should be above 10c as germination will be erratic in cold soils.

Sow seed liberally in shallow trenches 5cm (2 inches) deep.

Alternatively, sow in modules with several seeds per cell. Harden off before planting out module raised plants.

Water well and keep the soil moist until germination is complete.

Growing & General Cultivation

Asparagus Peas do not require plant supports but staking may be required at the edges to stop the plants from spilling onto neighbouring crops.

Keep growing crops weed-free.

Keep crops well watered, particularly during dry weather and when flowers are forming.

Pests & Diseases

Asparagus Peas are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases similar to Peas:

Mice can be a problem in the early stages. They will dig up seed and eat young shoots. Slightly over-sow to compensate. See Product Directory for methods of protection.

Pigeons can devastate crops. Protect with nets or cloches.

Powdery Mildew can affect Asparagus Peas, normally later in the season, and appears as grey powdery patches on foliage. Growth will be stunted and in severe cases may kill plants.

Harvesting

Harvesting can begin after 10-12 weeks from sowing.

Crop pods when on the small side, 2.5cm (1 inch) Any larger and pods will become tough and unpalatable.

Pick regularly for continued cropping throughout the summer.

Harvesting during the evening will be easier as Asparagus Peas have an unusual habit of closing their foliage at this time of day, making pods more visible.