Description
50 Seeds per pack
Early Frosty – Shelling Pea
Days to Maturity: 60–65 Days
Sun Requirements: Full Sun
Botanical Name: (Pisum sativum)
An improved version of the beloved Little Marvel, Early Frosty was bred and released in 1966 by the Rogers Brothers Seed Co. of Idaho Falls, Idaho. This heirloom variety quickly gained popularity for its cold hardiness, abundant yields, and sweet flavor, making it a favorite among gardeners in cooler climates.
Early Frosty’s vines grow to a sturdy 28–30 inches tall and do not require staking, making them easy to manage. This vigorous grower produces bountiful harvests of 3½ to 4-inch pods, each containing 6 to 8 medium-sized, dark green peas that shell easily and taste remarkably sweet.
Early Frost peas are great in the kitchen. Enjoy them fresh off the vine, or preserve their flavor by freezing or canning. Their sweet flavor and tender texture make them perfect for stir-fries, hearty soups, and pasta dishes. They’re also excellent steamed or lightly grilled for a flavorful side.
Rich in vitamins C, K, and A, along with B vitamins and folate, Early Frosty offers more than just great flavor—it’s a nutritious addition to your garden.
Disease Resistance: Fusarium Wilt
Planting Instructions for Early Frosty Pea Seeds
Early Frosty 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 Frosty 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 Frosty 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 Frosty Shelling Pea?
Early Frosty was introduced in 1966 by Rogers Brothers Seed Co. in Idaho and was bred as a hardier, more productive version of the classic Little Marvel pea. Its ability to thrive in cooler climates has made it popular among Northern gardeners.
How would you describe the flavor profile of Early Frosty Shelling Pea?
These peas are known for their surprisingly sweet, fresh flavor with a tender bite, making them a standout choice whether eaten raw or cooked.
What does Early Frosty Shelling Pea look like, and how does it grow in the garden?
Early Frosty produces tidy, bushy vines that reach 28–30 inches tall, forming a compact and upright shape ideal for small spaces. Its growth habit is self-supporting, meaning it usually doesn't require a trellis. The plants are visually appealing with lush green foliage and plentiful pods. Each 3½ to 4-inch pod is filled with 6 to 8 medium-sized, dark green peas that are easy to shell and harvest.
How much can I expect to harvest from Early Frosty Shelling Peas, and when is the best time to pick them?
Early Frosty produces a prolific harvest, with vines yielding plenty of 3½ to 4-inch pods, each containing 6 to 8 peas. The best time to pick is when the pods are plump, bright green, and feel firm to the touch. Inside, the peas should be round and fill out the pod without making it bulge too tightly. If the pods start to lose their green color, look shiny or waxy, and the peas inside feel hard , they’re likely overripe, and will taste more starchy than sweet. Picking frequently encourages more pods to grow.
What climate and growing conditions are best for Early Frosty Shelling Pea?
Early Frosty thrives in cool-season conditions and is well-suited for early spring planting. It grows best in full sun with well-drained soil that retains some moisture. This variety can handle light frosts and cooler temperatures, making it a good choice for gardeners in regions with unpredictable spring weather. For optimal germination and growth, soil temperatures should be between 45°F and 75°F.
What are the common culinary uses for Early Frosty Shelling Pea?
Early Frosty peas are versatile in the kitchen and work well in both fresh and cooked dishes. Their naturally sweet flavor makes them great for tossing into salads, blending into creamy soups, or adding to pasta, rice, and stir-fries. They also hold their shape and taste when lightly steamed, sautéed, or briefly simmered— also perfect as a simple side dish.
What’s the best way to store Early Frosty Shelling Peas after harvest?
For the best flavor and texture, shell the peas soon after harvesting—leaving them in the pods too long can cause them to lose sweetness. Once shelled, they can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days in an airtight container. For long-term storage, Early Frosty peas freeze well after a quick blanch, or they can be pressure-canned following safe canning guidelines. Both methods preserve their flavor and make them easy to enjoy in meals year-round.
What nutritional benefits do Early Frosty Shelling Peas offer?
These peas are a great source of vitamins C and K, with notable levels of folate and vitamin A, contributing to immune health, bone strength, and cellular function.
Is Early Frosty Shelling Pea resistant to any common garden diseases?
Yes, this variety has built-in resistance to , a common pea disease that can damage roots and stunt growth, making it a dependable option for gardeners.
Ken (verified owner) –