How to Grow and Care for Everlasting Sweet Peas: A Complete Guide

Introduction

Everlasting sweet peas (Lathyrus latifolius) are a beautiful and resilient addition to any garden. Known for their vibrant blooms and climbing nature, these perennial plants return year after year, adding vertical interest and color to trellises, fences, and pergolas. Unlike their fragrant, annual cousins, everlasting sweet peas are unscented but offer the advantage of low-maintenance care and long-lasting beauty.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about growing, caring for, and maintaining everlasting sweet peas, including:

• Choosing the right planting location
• Providing support for climbing
• Pruning and deadheading techniques
• Harvesting seeds for future growth

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, you’ll find practical advice and tips to help your sweet peas thrive. Let’s dive into the essential steps to get the most from these climbing perennials and enjoy their gorgeous blooms season after season.

What Are Everlasting Sweet Peas?

Everlasting sweet peas (Lathyrus latifolius) are hardy, perennial climbers known for their ability to return year after year. Unlike the more common annual sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus), which are famous for their strong fragrance and vibrant colors, everlasting sweet peas are primarily appreciated for their resilience and low-maintenance nature.

These climbing plants are perfect for covering trellises, fences, and walls, adding lush greenery and colorful blooms to your garden. The flowers come in various shades of pink, white, and purple, providing long-lasting blooms throughout the summer months. While they may lack the signature fragrance of their annual counterparts, they make up for it in ease of care and longevity.

Key Characteristics:

• Perennial: Everlasting sweet peas regrow each year, making them a sustainable choice for gardeners who want low-maintenance plants.
• Hardiness: These plants thrive in temperate climates and are resistant to cold winters, making them suitable for growing in the UK and other regions with similar weather conditions.
• Climbing Habit: With their climbing nature, these sweet peas can easily cover a trellis or pergola, creating beautiful vertical displays.
• Flowering Time: Everlasting sweet peas bloom from early summer through late autumn, ensuring a long-lasting display of color in the garden.

Comparison of Everlasting (Perennial) vs. Annual Sweet Peas

How to Plant Everlasting Sweet Peas

Planting everlasting sweet peas is a straightforward process that ensures you enjoy beautiful, long-lasting blooms year after year. Whether you’re starting from seeds or transplanting young plants, getting the foundation right is essential for success.

Best Time to Plant

• From Seeds: For the best results, sow everlasting sweet pea seeds in early spring after the last frost. If you prefer an early start, you can plant seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
• From Transplants: If you’re planting young plants, aim to transplant them in mid-spring when the soil has started to warm up.

Soil and Location Requirements

• Sunlight: Everlasting sweet peas thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Make sure they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Soil: These plants prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly alkaline pH. Add organic compost or aged manure to enrich the soil before planting.
• Spacing: Plant seeds or transplants about 8-12 inches apart to allow proper airflow and prevent crowding. This spacing ensures each plant has enough room to grow without competing for nutrients.

Step-by-Step Planting Guide

1. Prepare the Soil: Loosen the top 6-8 inches of soil and mix in compost or organic matter to improve drainage and nutrient levels.
2. Soak Seeds: Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting to help soften the outer shell and speed up germination.
3. Sow Seeds: Plant seeds about ½ inch deep in the soil. If you’re using transplants, dig a hole large enough to cover the root ball and position the plant at the same depth it was in the pot.
4. Water: Water thoroughly after planting, ensuring the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.

Tips for Optimal Growth

• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Support: Provide a trellis or other support structure as the plants start to grow. Everlasting sweet peas are vigorous climbers and will need something to latch onto as they develop.
• Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to encourage strong root growth. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering as soggy soil can lead to root rot.

Supporting Everlasting Sweet Peas: Trellis and Structure Ideas

Everlasting sweet peas are vigorous climbers, and to achieve their full potential, they need proper support. Providing a sturdy trellis or support structure not only helps them grow but also enhances the visual appeal of your garden. In this section, we’ll explore the best ways to support your everlasting sweet peas for healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Why Do Everlasting Sweet Peas Need Support?

Everlasting sweet peas naturally climb and spread as they grow. Without support, their long vines can tangle and sprawl across the ground, leading to:

• Reduced flower production: When vines don’t have vertical space to climb, their energy is diverted into vine growth instead of flower production.
• Increased risk of disease: Unsupported plants are more susceptible to fungal diseases and pest infestations due to poor air circulation.
• Less garden organization: Climbing plants add height and structure to the garden, making it more visually organized and appealing.

Best Trellis and Structure Ideas

1. Classic Garden Trellis: A simple vertical trellis made of wood or metal works wonders for sweet peas. Place the trellis close to the planting area and gently guide the vines as they grow.
   • Tip: Choose a trellis that is at least 6-8 feet tall to accommodate the full height of the plant.
2. A-Frame Trellis: An A-frame trellis allows sweet peas to climb up both sides, creating a lush, green wall of flowers. This structure is sturdy and provides excellent air circulation, helping to prevent disease.
   • Tip: Secure the bottom of the frame in the ground for added stability, especially in windy areas.
3. Obelisks or Garden Towers: Obelisks offer a stylish, vertical climbing frame for sweet peas. These towers come in various sizes and materials, adding both functionality and aesthetics to your garden.
   • Tip: Use obelisks in flower beds or near entrances to create stunning focal points.
4. String or Wire Fencing: For a more flexible option, you can use strong garden twine or wire fencing to create a climbing surface. Secure the string or wire horizontally between two stakes or along a fence for the sweet peas to latch onto.
   • Tip: Position the string or wire about 6-12 inches apart to give vines enough space to grab and grow.
5. Pergolas and Arbors: If you have a larger garden space, everlasting sweet peas can be trained to climb over pergolas or arbors, creating a charming, shaded walkway covered with flowers.
   • Tip: Position the sweet peas near the base of the pergola or arbor, and they will naturally begin to climb.

How to Train Your Sweet Peas

• Early Guidance: When the sweet pea vines are young, gently tie them to the trellis or support structure using soft garden ties or twine. This initial guidance helps the vines grow in the right direction.
• Regular Check-Ins: As the plants grow, regularly check that they are attaching to the support. If necessary, manually guide any loose vines back onto the structure.
• Pruning for Better Growth: If the vines become too tangled or overcrowded, prune back some of the weaker growth to encourage stronger, healthier vines to climb the structure.

Maintaining the Support Structures

• Stability: Regularly check the trellis or support structures for stability, especially during windy or stormy weather.
• Cleaning: At the end of the growing season, clean any reusable structures to prevent disease and pests from carrying over to the next season.

Training Everlasting Sweet Peas on an Obelisk Support

Everlasting sweet peas (Lathyrus latifolius) are vigorous climbers, making them ideal for growing up an obelisk support. Training these plants early in the season ensures they grow in the desired direction and reach their full potential, showcasing vibrant blooms throughout the summer and autumn months. You can use the same method for annual sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus), ensuring a beautiful vertical display.

Steps to Train Everlasting Sweet Peas:

1. Position the Obelisk: Place the obelisk in a sunny spot, ensuring it is secure and won’t tip over as the sweet peas grow. Everlasting sweet peas thrive with at least 6 hours of sunlight, which encourages healthy growth and abundant flowering.
2. Planting Around the Obelisk: Plant the sweet pea seeds or transplants at the base of the obelisk. Space the plants evenly around the structure to allow each vine to climb without overcrowding.
3. Early Guidance: As the sweet pea vines begin to grow, gently guide them toward the obelisk. Use soft garden ties or twine to loosely tie the stems to the structure. This initial support will help the plants latch onto the obelisk as they grow taller.
4. Check Regularly: Keep an eye on the vines as they grow. If any stems stray from the obelisk, gently guide them back and secure them to the support. Regular monitoring will ensure that the sweet peas climb evenly up the structure.
5. Pruning for Better Growth: If any vines become too tangled or crowded, prune away the weaker growth. This will encourage stronger, healthier vines to grow and climb, ensuring a neat and visually appealing display.

By following these steps, your everlasting or annual sweet peas will thrive on an obelisk, creating a stunning vertical feature in your garden.

Caring for Everlasting Sweet Peas Throughout the Year

To ensure your everlasting sweet peas thrive year after year, they need proper care throughout the growing seasons. While they are hardy and relatively low maintenance, paying attention to their watering, feeding, and pest management needs will keep them healthy and blooming abundantly.

Watering Needs

• Spring and Summer: Everlasting sweet peas require consistent watering, especially during dry spells. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging, as soggy soil can lead to root rot. In warmer months, water the plants early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent evaporation.
  • Tip: Mulching around the base of the plants helps retain moisture and keeps the roots cool during hot weather.
• Autumn and Winter: As the weather cools down, reduce watering. In autumn, the plants begin to slow their growth and enter dormancy. By winter, the soil should be allowed to dry out between light waterings to prevent overwatering the dormant roots.

Fertilising Tips

• Spring: At the beginning of the growing season, apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser to encourage strong growth. A high-phosphorus fertilizer can boost flower production and overall plant vigor.
  • Tip: Organic compost or aged manure is also a great option to mix into the soil during planting to enhance nutrient content.
• Summer: As the plants begin to flower, use a liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to keep blooms healthy and vibrant. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they encourage leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
• Autumn: As flowering slows down in late autumn, stop fertilizing and prepare the plants for dormancy. This allows them to conserve energy for the following season.

Managing Pests and Diseases

While everlasting sweet peas are generally hardy, they can still face challenges from pests and diseases. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

• Aphids: These small pests can weaken plants by sucking sap from the leaves and stems. If you notice aphids, treat the plants with a mixture of water and mild soap, or use insecticidal soap.
  • Tip: Introducing natural predators, like ladybugs, into your garden can also help control aphid populations.
• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent it, ensure proper air circulation by spacing plants appropriately and avoid overhead watering.
  • Tip: If powdery mildew appears, remove affected leaves and treat with a fungicidal spray designed for mildew control.
• Slugs and Snails: These pests can chew through the leaves of sweet peas, causing unsightly damage. Use organic slug pellets or set up physical barriers like crushed eggshells around the base of the plants to deter them.
  • Tip: Handpicking slugs in the early morning or evening is another eco-friendly method of control.

Pruning and Deadheading for Continuous Blooms

• Deadheading: Regularly deadhead (remove spent blooms) to encourage the plant to produce more flowers. This process helps direct the plant’s energy toward new blooms rather than seed production.
  • Tip: Pinch off the flower heads just below the bloom using clean scissors or your fingers.
• Pruning in Late Autumn: As the flowering season ends, cut the plants back to ground level. This will help them conserve energy during dormancy and prepare them for new growth in the spring.
  • Tip: Mulch around the base after pruning to protect the roots from harsh winter temperatures.

Winter Protection

• Mulching: In colder climates, apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plants in late autumn to insulate the roots and protect them from frost damage.
  • Tip: Use straw, compost, or shredded bark as mulch materials.
• Protecting from Frost: If extreme cold is expected, you can cover the plant’s base with garden fleece or another protective material. However, everlasting sweet peas are generally hardy enough to survive typical winter conditions without much additional protection.

For more expert tips and advice on caring for sweet peas, visit the Royal Horticultural Society’s sweet pea care guide.

How to Prune and Deadhead Everlasting Sweet Peas

Proper pruning and deadheading are essential for keeping your everlasting sweet peas healthy and blooming throughout the growing season. Regular maintenance helps encourage new growth, extend the flowering period, and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy or unruly. In this section, we’ll explore the best techniques for pruning and deadheading your sweet peas.

Why Pruning is Important

Pruning everlasting sweet peas helps:

• Promote new growth: Removing old or damaged parts of the plant encourages fresh growth and new flowers.
• Maintain plant shape: By pruning, you can guide the plant’s shape and prevent it from becoming tangled or leggy.
• Boost air circulation: Pruning reduces overcrowding, allowing more sunlight and air to reach the plant, which helps prevent fungal diseases.

When to Prune Everlasting Sweet Peas

• Early Spring: Prune back any dead or weak growth from the previous season to make way for new shoots. This is the time to shape the plant and provide a clean, healthy start to the growing season.
  • Tip: Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make precise cuts just above a leaf node or bud.
• Late Autumn: After the flowering season ends, cut the plants back to ground level. This helps the plant conserve energy during dormancy and promotes vigorous growth in the next season.
  • Tip: If you live in an area with mild winters, you can leave the stems slightly longer to provide a bit of winter interest in the garden.

How to Prune for Optimal Growth

• Step 1: Identify any dead, diseased, or damaged stems and remove them first. This prevents the spread of diseases and pests.
• Step 2: Thin out the vines by removing older, weaker stems. This promotes healthier growth and ensures that the plant isn’t overcrowded.
• Step 3: Prune the plant back to maintain a tidy shape, especially if it’s growing along a trellis or support structure. Aim to maintain an open, airy structure to improve air circulation.

How to Deadhead Everlasting Sweet Peas

Deadheading is the process of removing spent blooms to encourage more flowers. For everlasting sweet peas, this is particularly important as it:

• Prolongs flowering: By removing the faded flowers, you signal to the plant that it should continue producing blooms instead of focusing on seed production.
• Improves appearance: Removing dead flowers keeps the plant looking fresh and vibrant throughout the growing season.

Step-by-Step Deadheading Process

1. Identify Spent Flowers: Look for flowers that have wilted or started to turn brown.
2. Pinch or Cut: Using your fingers or sharp scissors, pinch off the flower stem just below the bloom. If you’re using scissors, make the cut just above the nearest leaf node.
3. Repeat Regularly: Deadheading should be done throughout the flowering season to keep the plant producing new blooms.

Pruning vs. Deadheading: What’s the Difference?

• Pruning: This involves cutting back larger parts of the plant, such as stems or branches, to promote healthy growth and maintain plant shape. It’s typically done once or twice a year, particularly in early spring and late autumn.
• Deadheading: This is the process of removing individual spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Deadheading is done regularly throughout the growing season as flowers fade.

Tips for Success

• Use clean tools: Always clean your pruning shears or scissors before and after pruning to prevent the spread of disease.
• Prune in dry weather: Pruning in wet conditions can increase the risk of fungal infections. Aim to prune on a dry, sunny day.
• Dispose of pruned material: Remove and discard all cut stems and flowers to prevent pests and diseases from lingering in your garden.

When and How to Harvest Seeds from Everlasting Sweet Peas

Harvesting seeds from everlasting sweet peas is a great way to propagate new plants and ensure a steady supply for future growing seasons. By collecting and storing seeds, you can save money and maintain the health and vigor of your plants year after year. In this section, we’ll cover the best time to harvest seeds and provide a step-by-step guide on how to collect and store them.

When to Harvest Seeds

The ideal time to harvest seeds from everlasting sweet peas is in late summer to early autumn, once the flowers have bloomed and the seed pods have fully matured. You’ll know the seeds are ready for harvest when:

• The seed pods turn brown and dry on the plant.
• The pods begin to split open or feel brittle when gently squeezed.
• The seeds inside have turned a dark brown or black color.

Step-by-Step Guide to Harvesting Seeds

1. Wait for Pods to Dry: Leave the seed pods on the plant until they are completely dry. Avoid harvesting too early, as immature seeds may not germinate well.
   • Tip: If rain is expected, you can cover the pods with a fine mesh or cloth to protect them from moisture and mold.
2. Collect the Pods: Once the pods are dry and starting to split, carefully snip them off the plant using clean pruning shears or scissors. Collect the pods in a paper bag or basket to allow for continued air circulation.
3. Remove the Seeds: After collecting the pods, break them open and remove the seeds. Discard any damaged or underdeveloped seeds, and keep the largest, healthiest seeds for future planting.
   • Tip: Use a sieve or mesh screen to sift out any debris or small plant material from the seeds.
4. Dry the Seeds: Spread the seeds out on a tray or paper towel in a cool, dry place for 1-2 weeks to ensure they are fully dry. Proper drying helps prevent mold during storage.
   • Tip: Avoid direct sunlight when drying seeds, as this can reduce their viability.

How to Store Everlasting Sweet Pea Seeds

Proper seed storage is essential to maintaining seed viability until the next planting season. Here’s how to store your harvested seeds:

1. Label and Store: Place the dried seeds in small, airtight containers, such as glass jars or sealed envelopes. Be sure to label the container with the plant name and the date of collection.
   • Tip: Include details like the variety or color of the sweet pea to help you organize your future planting.
2. Choose the Right Location: Store the seeds in a cool, dark, and dry location, such as a pantry or refrigerator. Consistent temperatures and low humidity are key to preserving seed viability.
3. Check Periodically: Every few months, check on the seeds to ensure they remain dry and free from mold or pests. If any moisture has developed, dry the seeds again before resealing.

Tips for Successful Germination

When it comes time to plant your harvested seeds, here are a few tips for maximizing germination:

• Scarification: Everlasting sweet pea seeds have a hard outer coating that can be difficult for water to penetrate. To improve germination rates, gently nick or sand the seed coat before planting.
• Soaking: Soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours before sowing can also soften the seed coat and speed up germination.
• Proper Storage Time: Seeds stored properly can remain viable for up to 3-5 years, but for best results, aim to plant them within 1-2 years of harvesting.

Why Harvesting Seeds is Beneficial

• Cost-effective: Harvesting your own seeds allows you to grow new plants without purchasing additional seeds each year.
• Genetic Strength: By selecting the healthiest plants from which to collect seeds, you can cultivate strong, robust plants that are well-suited to your local growing conditions.
• Sustainability: Saving seeds is a great way to maintain a self-sustaining garden and reduce waste.

For more tips on growing from seed, check out our complete guide on how to grow chillies from seed, which covers everything from germination to planting success.

Common Problems and How to Solve Them

While everlasting sweet peas are hardy and relatively easy to grow, they can still face a few common challenges. Whether it’s pests, diseases, or environmental issues, identifying these problems early can save your plants and help them thrive. In this section, we’ll explore the most common problems faced by gardeners growing everlasting sweet peas and provide practical solutions to tackle them.

1. Everlasting Sweet Peas Not Flowering

One of the most frustrating issues for gardeners is when their everlasting sweet peas fail to produce blooms. There are several reasons this can happen:

• Lack of Sunlight: Sweet peas need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to flower properly. If your plants are in a shaded area, consider moving them to a sunnier spot or trimming back nearby plants that may be blocking sunlight.
• Over-Fertilizing: Too much nitrogen in the soil encourages leafy growth at the expense of flowers. To fix this, switch to a balanced fertilizer or one that’s high in phosphorus, which promotes flowering.
• Improper Pruning: If the plants are not pruned or deadheaded regularly, they may stop producing new flowers. Make sure to remove spent blooms and cut back overgrown stems to encourage more flowering.

2. Yellowing Leaves

Yellowing leaves can be a sign of various issues, including nutrient deficiencies or watering problems:

• Overwatering: If the soil is too wet, it can cause root rot, leading to yellowing leaves. Ensure your sweet peas are planted in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Nutrient Deficiency: Yellowing leaves, particularly at the base of the plant, can indicate a lack of nitrogen. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to replenish nutrients in the soil.

3. Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects the leaves of everlasting sweet peas. It appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves and can slow the plant’s growth.

• Cause: Powdery mildew thrives in warm, humid conditions with poor air circulation.
• Solution: Improve air circulation by spacing plants properly and pruning overcrowded areas. Water the plants at the base to avoid wetting the leaves. If mildew appears, treat the affected plants with a fungicide or a homemade solution of water and baking soda.
  • Tip: Early morning watering helps the leaves dry out quickly, reducing the chance of mildew formation.

4. Aphids

Aphids are tiny insects that feed on the sap of sweet peas, causing distorted growth and weakening the plant.

• Solution: Remove aphids by spraying the plants with a strong stream of water. For more persistent infestations, use insecticidal soap or introduce natural predators like ladybugs to control the aphid population.
  • Tip: Regularly inspect the undersides of leaves, where aphids often hide, to catch infestations early.

5. Slugs and Snails

Slugs and snails can damage the leaves and stems of sweet peas, especially during damp, cool weather.

• Solution: Use organic slug pellets or create physical barriers like crushed eggshells or copper tape around the base of the plants. Handpick slugs and snails at dusk or dawn when they are most active.
  • Tip: Keeping the garden area free of debris and regularly turning the soil can discourage slugs and snails from taking shelter.

6. Leggy or Overgrown Plants

Sweet peas can sometimes become leggy or overgrown, especially if they’re not supported or pruned properly.

• Cause: Lack of support or inadequate pruning can cause the plants to sprawl and become tangled.
• Solution: Provide a strong trellis or support structure to guide their growth. Regularly prune back excess growth and remove weaker stems to maintain an open, structured shape.
  • Tip: Pinch back the growing tips of young plants to encourage bushier growth and prevent them from becoming too tall and leggy.

7. Root Rot

Root rot can occur if the soil is consistently waterlogged, preventing the roots from getting enough oxygen.

• Solution: Ensure the plants are in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. If you notice signs of root rot, such as stunted growth and black, mushy roots, reduce watering and improve drainage. Consider replanting in a raised bed or container with better drainage.

8. Weak Flowering Due to Lack of Nutrients

If your sweet peas produce weak or few flowers, it could be due to a lack of essential nutrients.

• Solution: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season, focusing on phosphorus to encourage flower production. Avoid fertilizers that are too high in nitrogen, as they encourage foliage growth over flowers.
  • Tip: Incorporate organic compost or slow-release fertilizers into the soil at planting time to support healthy blooms throughout the season.

Preventative Measures

• Good Air Circulation: Proper spacing between plants and regular pruning help improve airflow, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
• Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch helps regulate soil moisture, suppress weeds, and reduce the spread of diseases.
• Regular Monitoring: Inspect your plants weekly for signs of pests or disease. Catching problems early makes treatment more effective and reduces the risk of spreading to other plants.

Best Companion Plants for Everlasting Sweet Peas

Companion planting is a technique where different plants are grown together to mutually benefit each other. Everlasting sweet peas thrive when paired with the right companion plants that help enhance their growth, attract pollinators, and deter pests. Below, we’ll explore the best companion plants for everlasting sweet peas and explain why these pairings work well.

Companion Plants Table

Why Use Companion Plants?

Companion plants offer a variety of benefits to everlasting sweet peas, such as:

• Improved growth: Some plants enhance soil health or offer physical support for climbing.
• Pest control: Certain companion plants repel pests or attract beneficial insects that help control pests naturally.
• Aesthetic appeal: Companion planting adds visual diversity, mixing different textures, colors, and growth habits for a more attractive garden.

How to Plant and Arrange Companion Plants

When arranging companion plants around everlasting sweet peas, consider the following:

• Spacing: Ensure that taller plants like lavender or roses are placed at the back, while lower-growing plants like alyssum or nasturtiums fill in the front or base of the trellis.
• Complementary Growth Habits: Choose plants that complement sweet peas without competing for vertical space. Low-growing plants can cover the ground while sweet peas climb.
• Color and Aesthetic: Think about visual harmony when selecting companion plants. For instance, mixing soft pastel sweet peas with vibrant calendula or cornflowers can create a stunning display.

Conclusion

Everlasting sweet peas (Lathyrus latifolius) are a stunning and reliable addition to any garden, offering beautiful blooms throughout the growing season with relatively low maintenance. Their perennial nature makes them a long-term investment for gardeners, bringing vibrant color and vertical interest year after year. From planting and caring for your sweet peas to pruning, deadheading, and harvesting seeds, the steps outlined in this guide will help you ensure that your sweet peas thrive.

Key Takeaways:

• Planting: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained, fertile soil, and space plants about 8-12 inches apart. Provide support, such as a trellis, to allow them to climb and reach their full potential.
• Care: Regular watering, mulching, and proper fertilization throughout the year are essential for healthy growth. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases like aphids and powdery mildew, and address them quickly.
• Pruning and Deadheading: Prune regularly in spring and autumn to keep the plant healthy and prevent overgrowth. Deadheading spent flowers ensures continued blooming through the season.
• Seed Harvesting: Collect and store seeds from mature pods in late summer or early autumn to propagate new plants for the following season.
• Companion Plants: Enhance the growth and beauty of your everlasting sweet peas by planting them with beneficial companions such as marigolds, lavender, or cornflowers.

By following these tips and incorporating companion plants, your garden will be filled with lush, climbing everlasting sweet peas that not only provide beautiful blooms but also contribute to the health of your garden ecosystem.

Final Thoughts

Everlasting sweet peas are a versatile and rewarding plant, ideal for gardeners who want a splash of color and an easy-to-maintain perennial. Whether you’re growing them along fences, trellises, or pergolas, their ability to climb and cover structures makes them perfect for creating stunning vertical displays. Pair them with the right companion plants, give them the care they need, and your garden will enjoy their beauty for years to come.

If you’re looking for more gardening tips, companion planting ideas, or detailed guides on perennial plants, be sure to explore our other resources and sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date with all things gardening!