Stellar sweet peas: 5 fragrance boosting care tips
What's the story
Sweet peas are beloved for their stunning hues and heady perfume, earning them a cherished spot in many a gardener's heart. However, to truly unlock their olfactory magic and keep them thriving, a bit of special care is needed. This article offers five crucial tips for supercharging your sweet peas' fragrance. Follow them, and prepare for your garden to steal the show (or rather, the nose)!
Variety Choice
Select the right variety
If you want your sweet peas to smell as good as they look, you need to pick the right ones. Some of the best options for strong fragrance are heirloom varieties like Matucana, Cupani, and Painted Lady. These classics have been loved for hundreds of years for their amazing perfume. Trust us, your nose (and everyone else's) will thank you!
Sunlight needs
Plant in full sun
Sweet peas love the sun! They need at least six hours of direct sunlight every day to grow their most vibrant colors and sweetest scents. A sunny location not only encourages robust growth but also enhances the intoxicating fragrance of the blossoms. If grown in too much shade, sweet peas will disappoint with fewer flowers and a lackluster scent.
Soil quality
Use rich soil
The condition of the soil is of utmost importance for sweet pea plants. They thrive in rich, well-draining soil that is high in organic matter. Before planting, it is recommended to enrich your garden bed with compost or well-rotted manure. This not only supplies the nutrients required for healthy growth but also promotes the development of stronger plants. Stronger plants = more fragrant blooms. Simple!
Watering schedule
Regular watering is key
Sweet peas need regular watering to thrive, particularly in times of drought. Strive to maintain the soil uniformly damp but not saturated. Steer clear of overhead watering as it can cause mildew problems on leaves and stems. Water at the plant's base early in the morning to give foliage time to dry before nightfall.
Climbing support
Support their climb
As climbers, sweet peas require support to reach their full potential and truly shine. Installing trellises or stakes at planting time will train them to grow vertically, fostering better air circulation around the plants. This not only creates a more striking display but also promotes healthier plants that can produce even more of those intoxicatingly fragrant blooms we all love.