Thompson & Morgan Pea Mangetout Shiraz - Purple - 1 Seed Packet

An attractive strong purple variety, which is the first commercially grown magnificent mangetout! ...

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This guide is for home gardeners seeking to grow a unique and nutritious vegetable crop. The Thompson & Morgan Pea Mangetout Shiraz offers a distinctive purple hue and excellent flavor, providing a bountiful harvest from late spring to early autumn. A key consideration is its need for support as it grows and protection from pests.

All features

Model Part Number24347
BrandThompson & Morgan

Extended Product Information

FAQs

When is the best time to sow Mangetout Shiraz seeds?

Direct sow outdoors from March to June, once the soil has warmed and the risk of frost has passed.

How tall do Mangetout Shiraz plants grow?

Plants can reach up to 100cm (39.4in) in height when fully established, so support is necessary.

How often should I water my mangetout plants?

Regular and thorough watering is essential, particularly when the plants are in flower, to improve crop yields.

What is the main benefit of the purple color?

The purple color is due to anthocyanin pigments, which are antioxidants and contribute to the plant's health benefits. It also makes the pods visually distinctive.

How do I ensure a continuous harvest?

Practice successive sowing by planting seeds every 10 days from March to June. Regular picking of mature pods also encourages further cropping.

What kind of support do these plants need?

Provide support such as twiggy sticks, wire, or netting as the plants grow to help them stand upright and climb.

Are these seeds suitable for containers?

While ideal for garden beds, container growing is possible if the container is large and deep enough to accommodate the plant's height and root system, with adequate support provided.

Troubleshooting

Seeds not germinating

Ensure soil temperature is adequate (warmed soil), seeds are sown at the correct depth, and soil is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Plants are weak and spindly

Check for adequate sunlight exposure. Ensure plants have proper support structures and are not overcrowded.

Pods are not forming or are small

Increase watering frequency, especially during dry spells and when plants are flowering. Ensure adequate soil fertility.

Damage to leaves or pods

Inspect for pests like aphids or signs of bird damage. Apply appropriate netting for protection against birds and insects.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Introduces a visually striking purple color to the mangetout category.
  • Offers a great flavor profile suitable for various dishes.
  • Provides significant nutritional value, particularly anthocyanins.
  • Ensures a long harvest period throughout the growing season.
  • Comes with a substantial number of seeds for a good yield.

Cons

  • Requires sturdy support structures as the plants grow tall.
  • Vulnerable to bird and pea moth damage, necessitating protective netting.
  • Needs consistent moisture, especially during flowering, to maximize yield.
  • Successional sowing is recommended for continuous harvest, requiring more attention.
  • Results can vary based on specific growing conditions.

Setup, Compatibility & Care Instructions

Sowing: Direct sow Mangetout Shiraz seeds outdoors from March to June, once the soil has warmed and is no longer at risk of frost. Choose a location that receives full sun.

Soil Preparation: Prepare a weed-free area with moist, fertile, and well-drained soil. This provides the optimal environment for germination and growth.

Sowing Depth & Spacing: Sow seeds in flat-bottomed drills. Plant them 5cm (2") apart and 4cm (1 1/2") deep. Ensure a distance of 75cm (30") between rows to allow plants ample space.

Support: As the plants grow, they will need support. Provide them with twiggy sticks, wire, or netting to climb on. This is essential for healthy growth and ease of harvesting.

Protection: Protect your pea crops from birds and pea moths using fine netting. This is particularly important during the flowering and podding stages.

Watering: Maintain consistent and thorough watering, especially during the flowering period. Adequate moisture is key to improving crop yields and pod development.

Harvesting: Harvest the edible pods when the peas inside are just beginning to form, typically 12-13 weeks after sowing. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more flowers and pods.