How to intercrop the pea
How to intercrop the pea
The pea (Lathyrus oleraceus Lam.) is an annual herbaceous plant of the Fabaceae family, native to the Mediterranean and eastern area.
This plant is grown for its seeds, consumed as food or used as livestock feed.
The pea has been cultivated since the Neolithic era and accompanied cereals in the origins of agriculture in the Near East. In ancient times and the Middle Ages it was a staple food in Europe and the Mediterranean basin. Nowadays, its cultivation is practiced on the five continents, particularly in the temperate climate regions of Eurasia and North America.
Due to its nutritional importance, the dried pea is a traditional food in some countries, in particular in the Indian subcontinent and in Ethiopia, but it is relatively out of use as a flour and as a source of protein in most Western countries, where it is now mainly cultivated for animal feed or for export. After the 17th century, the pea became a popular fresh legume, whose consumption throughout the year is favored by conservation and freezing techniques.
In cultivation, the pea is a useful plant for some intercrops; among these we remember those with: basil, cabbage, watermelon, fennel, lettuce, corn, melon, pepper, turnip, radish, celery, spinach, stevia, marigold, pumpkin and courgette.
The association with some plants such as the one with: carrot and cucumber is very beneficial.
However, combinations with: garlic, onion, bean, potato, tomato, leek, parsley and shallot should be avoided.
Peas, like other legume plants, can therefore be intercropped with various other plants to promote mutual growth, improve soil health and ward off parasites. Here are some of the best plants to pair peas with:
Carrots: Peas can benefit from the company of carrots. Carrots help break up the soil, improving soil structure for pea roots.
Radishes: Radishes grow quickly and can help break up soil for peas. Additionally, planting radishes can discourage some pests that attack peas.
Cabbages: Plants in the brassica family, such as cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower, can be great companions for peas. These plants benefit from the nitrogen fixed by the peas in the soil.
Spinach and lettuce: These plants grow quickly and can help shade the soil, keeping the soil cool and moist for the peas.
Corn: Corn can provide natural support for climbing peas, allowing them to climb its stalks.
Cucumbers: Cucumbers can grow well alongside peas, especially if they come with climbing support, avoiding competition for ground space.
However, associations with some plants which, when peas are grown, can compete for the same resources or attract similar parasites should be avoided:
Onions and garlic: While they may have benefits in terms of repelling some pests, they can also compete with peas for the same nutrient resources if planted too close together.
Potatoes: Potatoes can harbor fungi that can be harmful to peas.
Beans: Because they are both legumes, peas and beans can compete for the same space and resources in the soil.
Following these companion planting tips can help you create a healthier and more productive garden by making the most of each plant’s characteristics.