As a Sweet Pea plant (Lathyrus odoratus), my primary purpose is to reproduce. However, for cut flowers, you must select varieties bred specifically for long, strong stems and prolific blooming. Look for 'Spencer' or 'Grandiflora' types. These cultivars have been developed to produce an abundance of fragrant flowers on stems long enough for cutting. Choosing the right variety is the first step in ensuring I can channel my energy into creating the beautiful, vase-worthy blooms you desire.
My success begins underground with my root system. I require deeply prepared, fertile, and well-draining soil. Before planting, work in plenty of organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure. This provides essential nutrients and creates a loose, cool root run, which I absolutely thrive in. I am a cool-season plant, so plant my seeds in a sunny location where I will receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. Good air circulation is also vital to keep my foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew, which can weaken me.
I am a natural climber. To produce those long, straight stems ideal for vases, I need strong support from the very beginning. Install a trellis, netting, or a brushwood support at planting time. As I grow, I will use my tendrils to cling to this support. This vertical growth prevents my stems from becoming tangled and crooked on the ground, encourages stronger growth, and makes it much easier for you to harvest my flowers without damaging me.
This is the most crucial step from my perspective. My biological imperative is to set seed. When you cut my flowers for a vase, you are effectively deadheading me. This signals to me that my mission to reproduce has failed, and I must urgently produce more flowers to try again. Therefore, the more you cut, the more I will bloom. Harvest my stems in the cool of the morning when the first few flowers on the stem are just open. Use a sharp knife or scissors to make a clean cut, and immediately place my stems in water.
To ensure I look my best in the vase for as long as possible, you must help me hydrate effectively. As soon as you cut my stems, put them into a bucket of cool water. Before arranging, re-cut the stems under water to prevent air bubbles from blocking my vascular system. Remove any foliage that will sit below the waterline to keep the water clean. Using a floral preservative in the vase water will provide me with sugars and discourage bacterial growth, significantly extending my vibrant display.
