Introduction
Pisum sativum L. ssp. arvense (L.) Poiret is a subspecies of Pisum sativum, commonly known as field pea. It is a part of the legume family, Fabaceae, and is widely cultivated for its nutritious seeds.Origin
Pisum sativum L. ssp. arvense has a wide distribution range that spans across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. However, it is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region and was introduced to other parts of the world as a food crop.Common Names
The plant has several common names that vary depending on the region. In Europe, it is commonly referred to as field pea, while in the United States, it is known as Austrian winter pea. Other names include forage pea, maple pea, and marrowfat pea.Appearance
The plant is an annual herb that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has a slender stem with compound leaves that have two to three pairs of leaflets and a terminal tendril. The flowers are white or pink and are arranged in pairs on long stalks. The pods are cylindrical and contain up to nine seeds, which are round, smooth, and usually yellow or green in color.Uses
Pisum sativum L. ssp. arvense is primarily cultivated as a forage crop for livestock feed. However, its seeds are also a valuable source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, and are used in human diets. In addition, the plant is often used as a cover crop to improve soil health and reduce erosion. Its ability to fix nitrogen makes it an important crop in sustainable agriculture.Light Requirements
Pisum sativum L. ssp. arvense (L.) Poiret, commonly known as field pea, can grow in a range of light conditions. However, it thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight to achieve optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The growth of Pisum sativum L. ssp. arvense (L.) Poiret is dependent on temperature. It grows best in cool temperatures and is primarily grown in the spring or fall season. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 10°C to 24°C. The plant does not tolerate high-temperature conditions and can show signs of stress in temperatures above 30°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers fertile, well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate a range of soil textures, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. The addition of organic matter to the soil can improve its quality, leading to better plant growth. Peas have a shallow root system and can do well in soil with limited depth.
Cultivation of Pisum sativum L. ssp. arvense (L.) Poiret
Pisum sativum L. ssp. arvense (L.) Poiret, also known as field peas, requires well-draining soil with a pH level between 6 and 7.5. The ideal climate for growing this plant is cool and moist, and it thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is best to sow the seeds in early spring, as they germinate best in temperatures between 45-75°F.
Watering Needs
Field peas require regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It is essential to monitor the moisture level of the soil to avoid dryness or overhydration. Young plants require a more frequent watering schedule than established ones, typically needing water every day or every other day. Once the plant has established, watering once or twice a week should be sufficient, providing around 1 inch of water per week.
Fertilization
Field peas are part of the legume family, which means they have a unique ability to fix nitrogen from the air into the soil. Therefore, it is not necessary to add nitrogen-rich fertilizers to the soil when cultivating field peas. However, phosphorus is essential for their growth and development, and you can add a phosphorus-rich fertilizer before planting or during flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for field peas, as they are self-supporting and do not require stakes or trellises. However, removing any yellow or damaged leaves can help the plant focus its energy and nutrients on producing healthy new growth. It is also beneficial to remove all of the plant's foliage after harvesting to prevent disease and pest issues.
Propagation of Pisum sativum L. ssp. arvense (L.) Poiret
Pisum sativum L. ssp. arvense (L.) Poiret, commonly known as field pea, is a cool-season legume that is commonly grown for its edible seeds. It is an annual plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family.
Propagation Methods
Field pea can be propagated through both sexual and asexual means. The most common method of propagation is through seed. Seed propagation involves sowing the seeds directly into the soil at the appropriate time. Seeds can also be started indoors and transplanted outside once the danger of frost has passed.
Asexual propagation methods, such as stem cuttings and layering, can also be used for field pea. However, these methods are not commonly used as they are not as reliable as seed propagation.
Seed Propagation
Field pea seeds should be sown in soil that is well-draining and has a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. The ideal soil temperature for germination is between 45°F and 75°F. Seeds should be sown to a depth of 1 to 2 inches and spaced 2 to 4 inches apart.
Field pea seeds should be planted in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. In areas with mild winters, field peas can also be planted in the fall for overwintering.
Care and Maintenance
Field peas require moist soil to germinate and establish. Once the plants are established, they are fairly drought tolerant. Field peas do best in full sun but can tolerate some shade.
Fertilizer is generally not required for field peas, as they can fix their own nitrogen. However, if the soil is particularly poor, a balanced fertilizer can be applied at planting time.
Field peas should be harvested when the pods are plump and the seeds inside are fully developed. The plants can be pulled up by the roots and left to dry in the sun before shelling.
Disease and Pest Management for Pisum sativum L. ssp. arvense (L.) Poiret
Pisum sativum L. ssp. arvense (L.) Poiret, commonly known as field pea, is a widely cultivated leguminous crop grown for human consumption, animal feed, and soil improvement. However, like any plant, field pea is susceptible to various diseases and pests which can significantly reduce yield and quality. Effective disease and pest management strategies are crucial for sustainable field pea production. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Fusarium wilt: This is a fungal disease that causes yellowing, wilting, and death of the plants. Crop rotations, use of resistant cultivars, and proper soil management practices such as adequate drainage and soil pH optimization can help manage Fusarium wilt.
Mycoplasma-like organisms (MLOs): These are bacterial pathogens that cause stunting, yellowing, and deformation of the plants. Planting disease-free seeds, cleaning equipment, and tools, and practicing good hygiene can help reduce the spread of MLOs.
Aphanomyces root rot: This is a water mold that causes root rot, wilting, and yellowing of the plants. Crop rotations, soil aeration, and proper drainage can help manage Aphanomyces root rot.
Common Pests
Aphids: These are small insects that suck sap from the plants, causing yellowing, curling, and stunting. Introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings, using reflective mulches, and practicing good sanitation can help manage aphids.
Cutworms: These are moth larvae that cut and feed on the stem of the plants, causing wilting and death. Using sticky traps, practicing crop rotation, and using resistant cultivars can help manage cutworms.
Pea weevils: These are beetles that feed on the seeds and pods of the plants, causing reduced yield and quality. Cleaning equipment and tools, using pheromone traps, and harvesting early can help manage pea weevils.
Implementing proper disease and pest management strategies can not only prevent yield and quality loss but also ensure sustainable field pea production.
