Stem pea Merveille de Kelvedon - organic seeds

Dwarf Pea Merveille de Kelvedon: Early Variety of Peas with Excellent Taste Quality

The Merveille de Kelvedon is an early variety of dwarf peas, ideal for shelling. Known for its vigorous growth and excellent heat resistance, this pea variety produces wrinkled peas with great taste. It is highly productive and delivers pods of outstanding flavor. The plant reaches a height of about 50 cm, making it ideal for small gardens or pots.

Growing Tips for the Dwarf Pea Merveille de Kelvedon

Sowing: Sow Merveille de Kelvedon in rows, spacing them 50 cm apart. Place one seed every 2-3 cm in the row at a depth of 2 cm. Direct sowing in small holes is also possible. For a harvest in June-July, sow from March to late April, or for a later harvest in October, sow in July.

The ideal germination temperature is between 15°C-18°C during the day and 10°C-7°C at night. If necessary, cover the seeds with a tunnel. Pea varieties, such as Merveille de Kelvedon, are not sensitive to frost, and the leaves can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C.

Maintenance: Merveille de Kelvedon prefers loose, moist, and deep soil. Make sure to hoe and water regularly in the first few weeks.

Thin the plants out to 20 cm apart to provide enough space for growth. Once the plants reach 15 cm in height, begin hilling to support the plants. Use branched twigs or other supports like trellises or concrete wire to keep the plants upright.

Even for the stem varieties, support them to ease harvesting and prevent rotting in wet conditions. Regular watering is essential for healthy growth, and using mulch helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Harvesting: The Merveille de Kelvedon is typically harvested 70-100 days after sowing. Shelling peas are ready for harvest when the peas are fully formed, which is usually about 3 months after sowing. For the best flavor and quality, harvest the pods when they are firm and well-filled.

Diseases: The Merveille de Kelvedon is susceptible to powdery mildew, a common disease in beans. To prevent mildew, avoid wetting the leaves while watering. Preventative or curative sprays with horsetail liquid can be helpful for combating infections.

Keep an eye out for slugs at the beginning of the season and protect the plants from birds during sowing.

Tips and Tricks: A cold treatment of the seeds and soaking them before sowing can improve germination, although this is not strictly necessary for a successful harvest. This extra step may speed up growth, but Merveille de Kelvedon is already a robust and productive variety on its own.

With proper care and attention, the Merveille de Kelvedon offers a delicious and productive harvest of dwarf peas to beautify your garden and your kitchen table.