Lathyrus | Sweet pea

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What is the lathyrus?

The lathyrus, also known as sweet pea or ornamental pea, is a stunning bloom belonging to the pea family. The name “lathyrus” is derived from the Greek word for pea, referring to the characteristic pods that house its seeds. With flowers in various colors and a sweet scent, lathyrus is a favorite among gardeners and flower lovers around the world. This flower symbolizes friendship, love and joy, which is why it’s often used in bouquets. The fun part about lathyrus is that the more you pick them, the more flowers appear. It is the ideal cut flower.

Types of lathyrus at FAM Flower Farm

At FAM Flower Farm you'll find 2 colors of lathyrus odoratus: spring sunshine peach and royal white. Both colors share the same delightful fragrance. They have long, sturdy stems, so they prefer to be planted against trellis, fencing or mesh.

Growing lathyrus seeds

Lathyrus seeds can be grown either in the garden or indoors. Cultivating lathyrus begins by choosing the right location. Make sure the plant receives enough sunlight and is sheltered from strong winds.

When sowing lathyrus seeds it’s important to soak them in lukewarm water for 24 hours first. This aids germination and supports healthy growth. Then plant the seeds about 2 to 3 cm deep in moist, well‑drained soil.

During the growing period, regular watering is essential for healthy development. Occasionally add some fertilizer to stimulate flowering and keep the area around the plant weed‑free.

Once the lathyruses begin to bloom, you can enjoy their colorful and fragrant blossoms. Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage new buds and extend the flowering season of these beautiful plants.

Care tips for lathyruses

If you want to keep your lathyrus healthy and happy, it’s important to provide good care. Be sure to water the plants regularly, especially during dry periods. Lathyruses prefer moist soil, so check frequently to prevent the soil from drying out. It’s recommended to support the lathyruses with climbing aids such as a trellis or mesh to help the plants grow upward and create a stunning vertical display.

Remove spent blooms regularly to encourage new flowering and prune away any dead leaves or stems as needed. This helps your lathyruses look fresh and stay robust in the garden. Don’t forget to pick the lathyrus flowers, because the more you pick, the more they produce.

When does the lathyrus bloom?

The sweet pea typically blooms from late spring through autumn, depending on variety and growing conditions.

Lathyrus usually begins blooming around 8–10 weeks after sowing. This means if you start sowing in early spring, you can soon enjoy these beautiful plants in your garden.

Combining lathyrus with dahlias and other flower seeds

The lathyrus has gorgeous flowers that fit beautifully into any garden. Pairing them with dahlias and other flower seeds you create a colorful and vibrant whole. The elegant flowers of the sweet pea complement the lush dahlias beautifully. Adding other flower seeds to this combination can bring even more depth and variation. Think for example of cheerful sunflower seeds to add extra contrast to the mix. By playing with different heights colors and textures you create an engaging garden that continues to surprise throughout the season. So feel free to experiment with combining sweet peas dahlias and other flower seeds in your outdoor space!

Buy lathyruses from family nursery FAM Flower Farm

Buy your beautiful lathyrus seeds at FAM Flower Farm for a colorful addition to your garden. With a wide selection of high-quality flower bulbs dahlia tubers and flower seeds you are guaranteed beautiful blooms. Treat yourself to sweet peas and enjoy their delightful fragrance and cheerful appearance