Are you ready to start a fun gardening adventure? Look no further than the humble black-eyed pea. While it is often not as popular as black or pinto beans, it does great in the hot climate of Phoenix, AZ. In this post we, concentrate on the Phoenix, AZ area. We’ll explore the art of growing black-eyed peas with a special focus on two varieties: the classic black-eyed pea and the purple hull. We will look at the benefits of growing these legumes in our sunny region and discover how they can enrich our gardens and our plates.
The Appeal of Black-Eyed Peas:
Black-eyed peas have a long-standing reputation as a staple in many cultures. With their creamy texture, mild flavor, and exceptional nutritional profile, they make a delightful addition to any garden. In Phoenix where our temperatures get ridiculously hot, black-eyed peas can be grown with great success.
The Classic Black-Eyed Pea Variety:
The classic black-eyed pea is the most common variety found in gardens. Known for its beige-colored seeds with a distinctive black “eye” spot, this variety is reliable, easy to grow, and adapts well to the Phoenix climate. Its compact growth habit makes it suitable for smaller garden spaces while its versatility allows for a wide range of culinary possibilities.
The Purple Hull Black-Eyed Pea:
For those seeking a touch of color in their garden, the purple hull black-eyed pea is a fantastic choice. With its eye-catching purple pods and light-colored peas, this variety adds a pop of color to your garden and dining table. When young, the tender hulls are more easily digestible, however honestly, I usually just get the beans out of the shell. Beyond its visual appeal, the purple hull variety shares the same exceptional nutritional benefits as its classic counterpart. I personally prefer them over the classic variety as I know when the bean is mature as the hull has a purple color vs the normal variety where the pod can blend in with the green of the plant.
Choosing the Ideal Planting Season:
To achieve the best growth and yield, it’s crucial to plant black-eyed peas at the right time. In Phoenix, the ideal planting window for growing black-eyed peas extends from April to August. This timeframe aligns perfectly with our warm weather ensuring the seeds germinate successfully and the plants thrive. While they do love hot weather, during the hottest parts of the summer months, you might see a drop in the production of this plant.
Preparing the Soil:
Preparing the soil is a vital step in setting the foundation for a flourishing garden. Black-eyed peas prefer well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Before planting, incorporate organic matter like compost or aged manure to improve soil structure and fertility. This not only enhances plant growth but also supports the beneficial microbial activity in the soil.
Planting Techniques:
When it comes to planting black-eyed peas, ensure they receive ample sunlight. Choose a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Sow the seeds directly into the prepared soil spacing them 4 to 6 inches apart and planting them at a depth of about 1 to 2 inches. Proper spacing promotes adequate airflow which reduces disease, and prevents overcrowding allowing the plants to thrive.
Care and Maintenance:
Maintaining healthy black-eyed pea plants requires minimal effort making them ideal for busy home gardeners. Regular watering is essential during the germination and flowering stages while established plants can tolerate drought conditions. Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants helps retain soil moisture and suppress weed growth. Additionally, black-eyed peas are nitrogen-fixing plants which means they have the unique ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form transferring that to the soil. As a result, they often require minimal additional fertilization. This nitrogen fixing ability will also leave the soil better for future plantings in that area.
Harvesting and Culinary Delights:
As your black-eyed pea plants mature it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Harvesting can occur when the pods have fully developed and the seeds are plump and firm. Simply open the pods to reveal the black eyed peas inside. Thar are ready to be enjoyed fresh or incorporated into a variety of dishes (I love them with just bacon and the black-eyed peas). What’s crazy is that the beans will look different when they are fresh vs the dry versions. The fresh ones have a slightly green tint to them. As far as cooking, Black-Eyed peas can be used in a variety of ways, but one of the most common ways to eat black eyed peas, is to prepare them for New Years Day, where it is believed eating them will produce good luck for the coming year!
Conclusion:
Growing black-eyed peas in our sunny region is rewarding. It brings both flavor and nutrition to our tables. Whether you opt for the classic black-eyed pea variety or the cool looking purple hull these legumes offer a fun plant to grow (and eat). Embrace the art of growing black-eyed peas in your home garden and enjoy the vibrant colors, rich flavors and abundant harvests that await you. Get out there and garden!