Black-eyed peas can be either a bush or a vine variety, depending on the specific type you choose to grow. Both varieties have their own advantages and considerations when it comes to planting and care.
The vine varieties of black-eyed peas, also known as pole or climbing types, require trellises or supports to grow vertically. These vines can reach heights of 6 to 8 feet or even more, so it’s important to provide them with adequate vertical space. When planting vine varieties, it’s recommended to space them about 2 feet apart to allow room for the plants to grow and spread out.
On the other hand, the bush varieties of black-eyed peas are more compact and don’t require trellises or supports. These bush types can reach heights of about 2 to 3 feet and have a more bushy and compact growth habit. When planting bush varieties, you can simply broadcast the seeds or plant them every 2 to 3 inches, as they don’t require as much space as the vine varieties.
Before planting black-eyed peas, it’s beneficial to apply a soil inoculant. Soil inoculants contain beneficial bacteria that help fix nitrogen from the atmosphere and make it available to the plants. Since black-eyed peas are legumes, they have a symbiotic relationship with these nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Applying a soil inoculant before planting can help enhance the growth and productivity of your black-eyed pea plants.
In my personal experience, I have grown both bush and vine varieties of black-eyed peas in my garden. I found that the bush varieties are easier to manage and require less space, making them suitable for smaller gardens or container gardening. The vine varieties, on the other hand, can be a great option if you have ample vertical space or want to create a living green screen in your garden.
To summarize, black-eyed peas can be either a bush or a vine variety. Vine varieties require trellises or supports and should be spaced about 2 feet apart, while bush varieties can be broadcasted or planted every 2 to 3 inches. Applying a soil inoculant before planting can benefit the growth of black-eyed peas. Ultimately, the choice between bush or vine varieties depends on your available space and gardening preferences.
