Origin
Lathyrus japonicus Willd. ssp. maritimus (L.) P.W. Ball, commonly known as the Sea Pea or Beach Pea, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the northern hemisphere and grows mainly in coastal regions, including the North Atlantic coasts of Europe, Asia, and North America.
Common Names
The plant is known by many different common names, including sea pea, beach pea, sea vetchling, and sea-lathyrus. The name "beach pea" is used in many regions and is a reference to the location where the plant grows.
Uses
Sea peas have long been used as a food source for humans and animals. The peas have a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and are high in protein, carbohydrates, and fiber. The plant is also used for erosion control, as its deep roots help to stabilize the soil. Additionally, sea peas are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as coughs, chest infections, and diarrhea.
General Appearance
The sea pea is a hardy, low-growing plant that typically reaches heights of 20-50 cm. It has a thick stem and a sprawling habit. The leaves are alternate and pinnate, with 4-8 pairs of leaflets that are oval to oblong in shape. The flowers are deep purple to violet in color, with a distinct pea-like shape. The plant produces pods that contain 6-9 brownish-green seeds that are much larger than most pea seeds. The seeds have a tough outer coating that helps them to survive in harsh coastal environments.
Light Requirements
Lathyrus japonicus Willd. ssp. maritimus requires full sunlight exposure to grow successfully. This plant cannot thrive or even survive in shady areas. Therefore, it is important to ensure that it is grown in an area where it can receive direct sunlight throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
Lathyrus japonicus Willd. ssp. maritimus requires a cool and moderate temperature to grow. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 15 to 25 °C. It can, however, tolerate high temperatures up to 35 °C. Low temperatures below 8 °C may cause damage to this plant. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the plant is grown in areas with moderate temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Lathyrus japonicus Willd. ssp. maritimus requires well-drained soils to grow properly. The plant prefers soils that are sandy or loamy and with a pH level ranging from slightly acidic to moderately alkaline. It is important to ensure that the soil is fertile and rich in organic matter. The addition of compost or other organic matter is therefore recommended for better growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Lathyrus japonicus Willd. ssp. maritimus (L.) P.W. Ball, commonly known as sea pea, is a hardy plant that can grow in many different conditions. It prefers full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline. It can grow in loamy, sandy, or rocky soil.
For cultivation, sow the seeds in the spring or autumn. Plant them in a sheltered location near the coast or in a garden bed. The plant can grow up to 90cm tall, so make sure to space the plants around 60cm apart from each other.
Watering Needs
The sea pea plant requires little water. It can tolerate dry soil, but it also likes moist soil. When watering, aim to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot. It is best to water the plant early in the morning to allow the excess moisture to evaporate during the day.
Fertilization
The sea pea plant requires little fertilization. It is best to add a small amount of organic matter to the soil before planting the seeds. This will provide the necessary nutrients for the plant to grow. However, be careful not to over-fertilize as this can damage the plant. A little goes a long way when it comes to fertilizing sea peas.
Pruning
Prune the plant in the early spring or late autumn to encourage new growth. Cut back any dead or damaged wood to allow for new growth. It is best to remove the spent flowers to encourage the plant to continue blooming. However, if you wish to collect the seed pods, allow the plant to mature and collect the pods before they split open.
Propagation of Lathyrus japonicus Willd. ssp. maritimus (L.) P.W. Ball
Lathyrus japonicus Willd. ssp. maritimus (L.) P.W. Ball, commonly known as beach pea, is a perennial herb found in the coastal regions of eastern Asia and North America. This plant is commonly propagated by its seeds, but it can also be propagated vegetatively through cuttings, divisions, and layering.
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating beach pea is through its seeds. The seeds can be collected directly from the plant, but they should be sown immediately for the best results. The seeds can also be stored in a cool and dry place for future use. To sow the seeds, they should be soaked in water overnight and then planted in a well-draining potting mix. The pot should then be placed in a warm and bright location until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about two weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Beach pea can also be propagated vegetatively through cuttings. To do this, a stem cutting with a few leaves should be taken from the parent plant and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist and placed in a bright and humid location until roots develop, which usually takes about four to six weeks.
Division Propagation
Another method of vegetative propagation that can be used for beach pea is division. This involves separating the parent plant into smaller sections, each with its own roots and shoots. This technique is best done in the spring, just as the plant starts to emerge from dormancy. The separate sections can then be planted in individual pots or directly in the ground.
Layering Propagation
Layering is a propagation technique where a stem from the parent plant is bent and buried in the soil, encouraging it to root and create a new plant. This technique can also be used for beach pea. To do this, a low hanging stem from the parent plant should be bent to the ground and partially buried in the soil. The stem should be anchored in place with a small stake or rock and kept moist until it roots and creates a new plant. This process can take several months to a year depending on the plant's growth rate.
Disease and Pest Management for Lathyrus japonicus Willd. ssp. maritimus (L.) P.W. Ball
Lathyrus japonicus Willd. ssp. maritimus (L.) P.W. Ball, commonly known as Sea Pea, is a coastal plant that is incredibly hardy and resistant to many pests and diseases. However, like all plants, it is not immune to disease and pest damage. As such, it is essential to identify the common pests and diseases that affect Sea Pea and determine the best ways to manage them to ensure that your plant remains healthy and thrives.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Sea Pea is Fusarium wilt. This fungal disease is characterized by yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and wilting plants. The fungus infects the plant's vascular system, causing it to wilt and die. To manage Fusarium wilt, it is essential to avoid planting Sea Pea in soil that has been infected with the fungus. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that the plant is adequately watered and fertilized to ensure optimal health.
Powdery mildew is another disease that affects Sea Pea. This fungal disease is characterized by white, powdery spots on leaves and stems. Infected plants may also have stunted growth and reduced yields. To manage powdery mildew, it is best to remove and dispose of any infected plant material and ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil with adequate ventilation.
Common Pests
Sea Pea is relatively pest-resistant, but it can still fall prey to various insects. Aphids are one of the most common pests that affect Sea Pea. These small insects feed on the plant's sap, causing wilting and stunted growth. To manage aphids, it is best to use natural predators like ladybugs or insecticidal soap to remove the insects from the plant.
Spider mites are another pest that can damage Sea Pea. These tiny pests feed on the plant's underside, causing yellowing leaves and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, it is best to use a strong jet of water to knock them off the plant or use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
In general, it is best to monitor the health of your Sea Pea regularly and take the necessary precautions to prevent or manage any pests or diseases that may affect the plant. With proper care and attention, your Sea Pea will thrive and be a beautiful addition to your garden.
