(L. odoratus) In the quest for darker and darker sweet peas, 'Almost Black' takes the idea to the furthest extreme yet. We've long been attracted to the dark, rich, saturated colors, 'Windsor' with its incredible, deep dark maroon, and 'Just Jenny' with its darkest purple. With 'Almost Black,' sweet pea breeder extraordinaire Keith Hammet has taken the color purple down into a black hole of saturation, where the name says it all. Big Spencer blooms on long stems with good fragrance are excellent for cuts.
80 days. LS

Pkt: 15 seeds

[split]

Growing Info

SOWING:

Sow indoors in late Winter (6-7 weeks before the last frost).

Transplant or Direct Sow in early Spring. If direct sown, it is crucial to maintain consistent soil moisture.

Note: For uniform germination, we like to soak seeds overnight prior to sowing. Nick any seeds that do not swell, and then continue to rinse and drain (twice/day) until roots just start to appear.

PLANTING DEPTH:

1/2"

SPACING:

6-8" in rows 5' apart.

EMERGENCE:

5-14 days @ soil temp 50-55F.
Sweet peas do best in cool soil and temperatures.
A lot of green growth occurs in the 30-55F range, and the plants can definitely handle temperatures down into the 20s!
70F is the optimal temperature for blooming. Sow early for early blooms, or we've found success planting in areas that will see some afternoon shade.

LIGHT:

Full sun to mostly full sun

FERTILITY:

Moderate-rich. Prefers rich, evenly moist, and well-drained soil.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

Transplant gently to avoid root disturbance, and keep soil level at a similar height & evenly moist.

Stake or provide netting to keep them upright and tidy.

Although they will likely branch independently, to encourage branching, pinch at 6" tall to the third leaf node.

Deadhead to encourage blooms and discourage seed set.

Stiff cut stems, with 2 unopened buds, have a 4-5 day vase life.

Sweet Pea, 'Almost Black'