Plant Spotlight: Masterpiece Pea

How long has it been on the market?
Since 2015, and it is a Burpee exclusive, sold as seed or in branded pots at retail.

Habit
Mounded

Grows to height/width
Grows 28 to 32 inches high and 26 to 30 inches wide

Growing season
Cool-season crop and hardy to 32 degrees Fahrenheit

Sun / shade requirements
Full sun

Works well in
window boxes, small-space gardens

Retail Merchandising/Display Suggestions
Masterpiece is a pea with a story. Be sure to use the variety bench card to supplement the tag. Consider having Peas in 4-inch pots on an endcap to draw attention. Sell along with edible spring flowers, like a pansy or viola, to appeal to customers’ inner foodie.

Consumer care requirements
Peas are a cool-season crop. Plant them in the ground while the soil is still cool, but not cold (best grown in temperatures below 70 degrees Fahrenheit). Soil should be well-drained and humus-rich. Do not over-fertilize; peas are sensitive to nitrogen. Peas do benefit from phosphorus (bone meal) and potassium. Water only if wilting occurs. However, if plants dry out, it will affect pod production. To grow vertically, establish a trellis and supports when planted to assist vines. Keep the area weed-free, but avoid disturbing the plant roots. Rotate your pea crop every few years to avoid soil-borne disease buildup.

The parsley-like tendrils, pods and peas of Masterpiece are all edible. The young tendrils are ready for harvest in just a month for a delicate spring pea flavor. Pods are packed with peas that offer sweet, fresh flavor and aroma. Ideal for small-space garden beds, patio containers and window boxes. Masterpiece offers excellent Fusarium and powdery mildew resistance.