Knowledgebase

Overwintered Peas #889234

Asked November 02, 2024, 2:42 PM EDT

To whom it may concern, I am growing overwinter peas in the Burlington area. Ideally they should be about four inches before they get covered with straw for the winter. However, I planted them a little early and they are 6-8 inches tall (a few closer to ten). I was wondering if they are okay to overwinter that developed or should I cut them back? Will cutting them back hurt them? Thanks for your help.

Chittenden County Vermont

Expert Response

Winter peas compete poorly with winter weeds, which can choke it out during mild winters, so if anything allowing a more established crop to flourish will be good for your soil. Given the mild fall we are having thus far, you are surely not the only one seeing your cover crops growing more than usual. With warm winters and adequate water, cover crops can sometimes produce excessive biomass, in which case growth should be terminated at an earlier date to prevent problems with planting summer crops, but we are in Vermont so I doubt you will encounter this issue. My advice would be to let them go and see how they fair the winter months. If they survive the winter, you’ll still want the nitrogen they produce and still prepare your beds the same way before planting season. Your termination strategy in the spring is what matters the most, so I’ve included a link to a resource which should help you there. Hope this helps!

https://www.canr.msu.edu/community_food_systems/uploads/files/Killing%20Cover%20Crops%20Urban%20Areas.pdf

Mo, UVM Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Replied November 06, 2024, 11:18 AM EST

Loading ...