How to grow Asparagus pea
How to grow Asparagus Pea - Introduction
Asparagus Pea, Lotus tetragobolonus, is an unusual vegetable which has a unique flavour, a bit like a cross between tender asparagus and fresh young peas.
It is an extremely old vegetable (dating back to the 1590's or earlier) that is now seeing a resurgence in popularity - and deservedly so.
This is a real gourmet delight, having a flavour that can be best described as a cross between the freshest of garden peas and tender, early asparagus.
These small, shrubby plants produce pretty, sweet-pea-like maroon flowers which are followed by the small seed pods that we harvest.
How to grow Asparagus Pea - Crop Rotation
Asparagus Pea is a member of the Bean Family, and it is recommended that it should not be grown in the same soil as other family members for at least three years.
Ideally, brassicas (Cabbage Family) should follow it the following year to take advantage of the nitrogen that it fixes into the soil.
How to grow Asparagus Pea - Sowing Seed
Sow seeds under glass in pots in early spring or outdoors in late spring.
Under glass sow seeds individually in 7.5cm (3in) pots in a good seed compost.
Germination usually 7-14 days at 19-21C (65-70F).
Harden off and plant out 30cm (12in) apart when all risk of frost is gone.
Sow outdoors 10cm (4in) apart in well raked soil in rows 30cm (12in) apart.
How to grow Asparagus Pea - Cultivation
The plant will be ready to crop in 50 Days from planting out, growing to a height of 12 inches (30 cm).
Small winged pods should be harvested when about 3-4cm long, superb flavour akin to Asparagus.
Will crop all summer long if picked regularly.
How to grow Asparagus Pea - Harvesting
Pick pods regularly while young and tender.
Don't allow pods to get more than 3cm (1 in) long.
Many believe it better and easier to pick in the evening.
As a member of the legume family, the roots of the plant will fix extra nitrogen into the soil, making it ideal for brassicas the following year.
How to grow Asparagus Pea - Kitchen Notes
These pods have the flavour and consistency of asparagus when cooked in butter with a little salt - delicious as a starter!
Asparagus Pea goes with virtually any dish, when you can cook the pods whole at 3cm (1in) long, preferably by steaming, and serve with a little melted butter. No flavouring should be used as this will destroy its own delicious taste.