How to Grow Snow Peas in New Zealand
Flat edible pods picked before the peas swell. In Auckland this is a cool-season crop, so sow from autumn through to early spring. Pick every few days to keep plants producing, and trellis climbing types to over 1.5m. Fixes nitrogen for the next crop.
When to plant snow peas in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Auckland | February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Waikato & BoP | February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Wellington | February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Nelson & Marlborough | February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Canterbury | February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Otago & Southland | February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Central Otago | February, March, April, August, September, October |
Best snow peas varieties for NZ
- Oregon Sugar Pod — Reliable flat-podded snow pea, sweet and tender, heavy cropper. (Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds, Mitre 10)
- Mammoth Melting Sugar — Tall climber with large sweet flat pods, very productive. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds)
- Snow Wind (Dwarf) — Compact self-supporting snow pea, good for tubs and small beds. (Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds)
- Golden Sweet — Heritage yellow-podded snow pea with purple flowers, ornamental and tasty. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds)
How to grow snow peas
- Space plants about 10cm apart.
- Sow seed around 3cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 60 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 8 days.
Companion planting
Grow snow peas near: Carrot, Radish, Corn, Cucumber, Beans, Lettuce.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Aphids, Slugs, Birds. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant snow peas in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in February, March, April, August, September, October. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy snow peas seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds, Mitre 10.