Description
50 Seeds per pack
Progress #9 (A.K.A. Laxton’s Progress #9, Greater Progress, Blue Bantam) – Shelling Pea
Days to Maturity 58–65 Days
Sun Requirements: Full Sun
Botanical Name: (Pisum sativum)
Developed at the turn of the 20th century by the renowned English strawberry breeder Thomas Laxton—Progress #9 quickly gained popularity for its reliability and productivity. Originally bred in Britain, it is well-suited to cooler climates, where it performs best.
A dwarf variety, these compact vines grow just 18–24″ tall, making them easy to manage and perfect for smaller garden spaces. The plants produce an impressive yield of large 5″ long, dark green pods, each packed with 6–9 large, plump peas.
The flavor is mild and pleasantly sweet, with a soft, creamy texture that holds up beautifully in a range of dishes. Whether tossed into a spring salad, stirred into stews and soups, or simply steamed and served as a side dish, Progress #9 peas deliver both a great flavor and versatility. They shell easily and are excellent for freezing or canning, offering a great way to enjoy garden-fresh peas long after the harvest.
Progress #9 peas are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with folate, making it a healthy addition to any garden.
Disease Resistance: Fusarium Wilt.
Planting Instructions for Progress #9 Pea Seeds
Progress #9 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. 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 Progress #9 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 Progress #9 Pea?
Progress #9 Pea, also known as Laxton’s Progress #9, Greater Progress, or Blue Bantam, was developed by famed English strawberry breeder Thomas Laxton in the early 1900s. It became well-known for its high yield and adaptability to cooler climates.
How would you describe the flavor of Progress #9 Pea?
The flavor of Progress #9 Pea is mildly sweet with a soft, creamy texture that makes it perfect for a variety of dishes, from fresh salads to warm, hearty soups.
What does Progress #9 Shelling Pea look like, and what are its growing habits?
This dwarf variety grows to about 18–24 inches tall, forming compact, bushy vines that produce large 5-inch dark green pods filled with 6–9 plump peas.
How much can I expect to harvest, and when is the best time to pick Progress #9 Shelling Pea?
Progress #9 matures in 58–65 days and produces heavy yields of 5″ pods filled with 6–9 peas. Harvest when pods are plump but before peas become oversized. Gently pinch pods from the vine to avoid damaging the fragile plants.
What climate conditions are ideal for Progress #9 Shelling Pea?
Cool weather suits Progress #9 best. It thrives in early spring conditions, preferring full sun and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.
What are the common culinary uses of Progress #9 Shelling Pea?
These peas are versatile: use them steamed as a side, tossed in fresh salads, blended into soups or stews, or preserved by freezing or canning for later use
What’s the best way to store Progress #9 Shelling Pea after harvest?
For best flavor and texture, shell and blanch the peas before freezing—this helps preserve their sweetness and color. Freezing is ideal for long-term storage. Canning is also a great option if you want a shelf-stable supply that’s ready to use without thawing.
What vitamins or nutrients do Progress #9 Shelling Peas contain?
Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, Progress #9 is not only delicious but also a nutritious addition to your meals.
Does Progress #9 Shelling Pea have any notable disease resistance?
Yes, Progress #9 is resistant to Fusarium Wilt, a common soil-borne disease. This resistance helps maintain healthy plants and contributes to a more resilient, disease-free garden.
Joyce B. (verified owner) –
Right on time and exactly what I ordered.
Anonymous (verified owner) –
Excited to start these next year!