CASELOAD PEA SEEDS

Pisum sativum

The original ‘Caseload' was an old commercial shelling pea. Shelling peas are, and have for centuries been, far more common in mainland Europe than they are in English or American gardens, and in the past were colloquially known as “Dutch peas". Good shelling peas are great for gardeners that could care less about a crisp peascod, and especially important for those that would like to preserve the sweet tender peas freed from their pods. Maintained for decades by a Mennonite farmer, this modern selection of Caseload seems to have been pollinated at some point by a snap pea, but like its forebear the big pods are filled with delicious peas that are produced early in the season. These peas are larger and hold in the ideal shelling stage for a bit longer than Petit Pois. An excellent choice for busy gardeners and homesteaders that process or freeze their peas.

Plants are short climbers to 3' or so, and require support. Peasticks are sufficient. Sow in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. Pods are sometimes ready to shell in as little as six weeks after sowing! Check the garden frequently and pick pods just as soon as they are fully plumped with peas. Shell promptly to eat or freeze or process. Once all peas are harvested the plants can be cleared with plenty of time to sow a crop of bush beans in their place.

Packet contains at least 50 seeds.