Description
50 Seeds per pack
Early Alaska (A.K.A. Alaska, Earliest of All) – Shelling pea
Days to Maturity: 55–60 Days
Sun Requirements: Full Sun
Botanical Name: (Pisum sativum)
Renowned pea breeder Thomas Laxton of Bedford, England, introduced this variety in 1881, the result of a cross between Ringleader and Little Gem. Originally known as “Earliest of All,” it made its way to American gardens via seedsman James J.H. Gregory in 1882. By 1884, it was renamed “Alaska,” in honor of the famed steamship that once held the Atlantic crossing speed record. True to its name, it is the earliest variety of shelling pea, maturing very quickly and bringing in the first harvest of the season.
This semi-dwarf shelling variety grows to a tidy 24–36 inches tall and benefits from light support. The slender plants produce pale green pods, each measuring 2 to 3 inches long and typically holding 5 to 7 peas. Despite its small size, it produces generously, making it a great choice for small garden plots.
The peas are sweet and tender, and shine whether eaten fresh or cooked—excellent in soups, stews, and salads, or simply served as a side dish. They also freeze well when shelled, making it a good choice for long-term storage.
Rich in vitamins C, K, and A, along with B vitamins and folate, making Early Alaska a healthy addition to any garden.
Disease Resistance: Fusarium Wilt
Planting Instructions for Early Alaska Pea Seeds
Early Alaska peas are a cool-weather crop that like well-drained soil and plenty of organic matter to assist with moisture retention. Direct sow peas as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring.
Plant pea seeds in full sun, 1–1½″ deep, 1–2″ apart, in rows 18–24″ apart. Early Alaska pea seeds should germinate in 6–14 days at temperatures between 45–75°F. There is no need to thin plants. Provide a trellis or other support for climbing varieties.
Heirloom/Open-Pollinated Bush Pea varieties usually do fine with a short trellis or by planting in a block so the pea plants support each other.
Harvest Early Alaska Shelling Peas when the pods are full and plump and the peas are tender. Harvest Heirloom/Open-Pollinated Snap Peas when the pods start filling out but are not yet fully mature. For Snow Peas, harvest when the pods are approximately 3″ long and still flat, before the seeds start to fill out.
FAQ:
What is the historical or notable background of Early Alaska Pea?
Early Alaska Pea was first bred in 1881 by renowned English pea breeder Thomas Laxton, created from a cross between Ringleader and Little Gem. Originally called “Earliest of All,” it arrived in the U.S. via seedsman James J.H. Gregory and was renamed “Alaska” in 1884 after a record-setting steamship.
How would you describe the flavor profile of Early Alaska Pea?
Early Alaska Pea offers a naturally sweet and tender flavor, making it delicious whether enjoyed raw, lightly steamed, or incorporated into soups and stews.
What does Early Alaska Pea look like?
This semi-dwarf plant reaches 24–36 inches in height and bears pale green pods about 2 to 3 inches long, each containing 5 to 7 petite, round peas with a fresh green hue.
What are the growth habits and garden appeal of Early Alaska Pea?
With its compact size and prolific yield, Early Alaska Pea thrives in small garden spaces and benefits from minimal support, maturing earlier than all other shelling pea varieties for the season’s first harvest.
What climate conditions are ideal for growing Early Alaska Pea?
Early Alaska Pea thrives in cool weather and prefers full sun, making it an excellent choice for early or late-season planting, especially in cooler climates where quick-growing crops do well.
What are the common culinary uses for Early Alaska Pea?
These peas are incredibly versatile—perfect in fresh salads, hearty stews, classic pea soups, or simply steamed and served as a healthy side dish.
How should Early Alaska Pea be stored and practically used?
For best results, shell the peas shortly after harvest and either enjoy them fresh, cook them in your favorite dishes, or freeze them to preserve their flavor and nutrition for months.
What vitamins or nutrients does Early Alaska Pea contain?
Packed with health benefits, Early Alaska Pea delivers vitamins C, K, and A, along with B vitamins and folate, supporting immune health and energy metabolism.
Does Early Alaska Pea have any notable disease resistance?
Yes, Early Alaska Pea demonstrates resistance to Fusarium Wilt, aiding in keeping your crop healthy.
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