Sweet Pea Seed 'Spencer' Mix

This is an old variety of Sweet Pea that first aroused our notice when the late Eric Shirley grew them in the 1940's at his home and allotment in Isleworth, Middlesex. Their perfume is outstanding.

Clearly this has nostalgia for us and our blend is from 40 distinct named varieties in a grand mixture including varieties of old such as R.A.F., Air Warden and Winston Churchill. Long-stemmed, excellent show-quality blooms can be produced from late April under cold glass or a polytunnel.

Recognised to be an excellent attractant and nectar source for bees and other beneficial insects.

• Sow in 3½" (9 cm) pots October-April, 2 seeds per pot and grow cold.
• Protect seeds from mice and birds.
• You can direct sow in the ground from late April until late May.
• Choose an open sunny position.
• Sweet peas like a deep root run with plenty of humus incorporated as bud drop occurs if the soil dries out.
• Plant 6-9" (15-23 cm) apart.
• Flower June-September.
• Grow to approximately 8 feet (2.4 metres) tall with suitable support.
• Pick flowers frequently (and before they set seed) to prolong flowering.
• Earlier blooms can be produced by growing under protection.
• Under no circumstances should the seed or seed pods (which look similar to edible garden peas) be eaten as they are poisonous.