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1. Use a large terra-cotta or other porous container (at least 20 inches in diameter). 2. Fill with best-quality potting soil and a handful of balanced fertilizer. 3. Add a trellis of some sort. We love just-pruned tree branches tied together at the top to form an arch or a teepee. 4. Sow no more than eight to 10 sweet pea seeds in the pot. (Resist the urge to overplant.) When plants reach about 3 inches tall, thin to best four to six seedlings. Keep soil evenly moist, and shelter from cold or drying winds. 5. When seedlings reach 5 to 6 inches, begin tying loosely to supports with twine. 6. When plants reach about 1 foot high, poke four more seeds into pot to ensure successive blooms. When the first plants begin to look shabby, cut them down and let the second planting take over. FYI While there are more than a dozen classifications of sweet peas, here are the ones you’re most likely to run into on the seed rack. (Note bloom times and regional recommendations.)Old-fashioned
Most heat-tolerant and easiest to grow.
Sometimes labeled 'Grandiflora' though flowers are small.
Truly powerful, deeply intoxicating fragrance.
Shorter stems make them perfect for smaller arrangements. 
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Spencer Sweet Peas are available in just about every color of the spectrum. |
Spencer
Thrive in regions with cooler summers.
Latest blooming varieties.
Unrivaled for their long stems and extra-ruffly petals.
Flowers are large and come on nonstop for several weeks.Cuthbertson
Great choice for warmer regions as can better tolerate heat.
Among earlier bloomers (at least two weeks before Spencers).
Flowers and scent are not as impressive but are reliable bloomers in otherwise challenging climates.
Limited color range, but look for the clear vibrant white variety. Dwarf/Semi-Dwarf
Grow well in all regions but best in cooler climates.
No more than a foot high so no staking required.
Excellent for containers or planting under taller varieties.
Short stems make them a less-than-perfect choice for cutting.
Scent is not their best asset but they do produce loads of blooms. Winter Elegance
Early flowering, best choice for climates with hot summers.
Well-scented bloom in a range of hues from pastel to crimson.
Buy single colors rather than mixes for prettiest bouquets.
Long stems make for heavenly arrangements. Early Multiflora Giganteas
Earlier than Spencer sweet peas. What commercial growers plant for uniform blooms (if you're planting for an event like a wedding, this is an excellent choice)
Look for 'Mammoth' series with its extra-long stems.
Lightly scented but still nice.
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