Champion of England Pea

An historic variety originally introduced in the 1840s, this heirloom strain is from the family of Robert Woodbridge brought to Seed Savers Exchange by Ben Gabel and Kate McEvoy. Robert’s grandmother got the seed “from the head gardener at a big country house during the war” and grew it in her garden in the village of Pickworth, Lincolnshire, England. A traditional tall pea that reaches heights of 10 feet—a great return for a small space. Eight to ten peas per pod.

• 60-75 days
• ±2,000 seeds/lb
• Conventional
• Shelling pea
• Vines grow to 10 feet
• Each pod has 8-10 seeds

This variety works for:

• Fresh eating
• Roasting
• Soups
• Freezing

SSE's current stock of the 'Champion of England' pea tested at a 73% germination rate. This is below the federal germination rate standard (80%) and has been over-packed by 25% of the stated quantity.

Instructions - Peas thrive in cool weather. Sow seeds outdoors as soon as soil can be worked in spring. Seeds will germinate in 7-14 days. Double rows of peas can be planted on each side of a trellis.

• Direct Seed: 2-3" Apart
• Seed Depth: 1/2-1"
• Rows Apart: 24"
• Support: Trellis

Peas can be eaten fresh and tossed with mixed greens or added to stir-fries.

Try roasting your peas and dipping the pods in a peanut-sesame dipping sauce. You can also roast them with potatoes and carrots and toss with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.

Fresh peas are an excellent addition to pasta in cream sauce with asparagus and mushrooms. Peas pair well with mint, feta or goat cheese, toasted nuts, and parmesan.

Fresh peas can be used in spring soups with watercress, mint, asparagus, or parsley.