Snow Pea ‘Beauregarde’

Photo courtesy of Row 7 Seeds

Spring vegetable planting is upon us and if you want to add a new and exciting vegetable to your garden, you’ve got to try Snow Pea ‘Beauregarde’! Developed by vegetable breeder Michael Mazourek of Cornell University, in collaboration with Row 7 Seeds, ‘Beauregarde’ was bred to bring more flavor and color to purple peas. These Snow Peas have wavy, 3” long vibrant purple pods with the cutest bright green peas inside. The color contrast when you crack open a pod will make you smile.

The deep purple pods indicate they are high in anthocyanins. Anthocyanins are a type of water-soluble pigments found in some fruits and vegetables that give them their black, purple, blue or red color. (Think Blueberries, Red Cabbage, Sweet Potatoes) These pigments belong to a class of compounds called flavonoids that have antioxidant effects and are thought to offer an array of health benefits. ‘Beauregarde’ is known for its ability to hold its vivid color even when cooked.

Row 7 Seeds is a seed company that was “Built by chefs, farmers and breeders striving to make ingredients taste better before they ever hit the plate. It’s a collaboration – a cross-pollination – based on a simple premise: we believe flavor can succeed where commodification has failed. That it can change how we eat and, in turn, how we grow.”

Plant Snow Pea “Beauregarde’ 1-2 inches apart, in rows spaced 4 feet apart. Trellis to support the vines that can reach 5 to 6 feet tall. Plant in well drained soil that is rich in organic matter. In coastal regions, plant in full sun. Inland, sun with afternoon shade. For peak flavor potential, wait until the small peas are fully developed in the pod. The way to know they are ready is when small bumps are clearly visible on the pods, indicating they are mature and ready for harvest – more than a traditional snow pea, less than a shelling pea.

We are currently growing Snow Pea ‘Beauregarde’ in both 6 packs and 4.5” pots. Pick some up today and add some diversity to your spring vegetable garden.