How to Grow Late Marrowfat Pea 'Telephone'
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Late Marrowfat Pea 'Telephone'
Pisum sativum var. macrocarpon
vegetableTelephone is a classic late-season marrowfat pea variety prized for its tall vines, large sweet pods, and tender peas. Introduced in 1880, this heirloom variety produces abundant yields of 4-5 inch pods filled with plump, flavorful peas. The vigorous plants can reach 4-6 feet tall and require support for optimal growth.
When should you plant Late Marrowfat Pea 'Telephone' in your zone?
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Example Late Marrowfat Pea 'Telephone' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Late Marrowfat Pea 'Telephone'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Late Marrowfat Pea 'Telephone'
Around Jun 21≈ 65 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-8; prefers cooler spring and fall seasons
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Germination
1-2 weeksSeed absorbs moisture and sends out a radicle; young shoot emerges in 7-14 days
Ensure soil stays evenly moist but not waterlogged; protect from birds and mice; support moisture retention with mulch after sprouting
Seedling & Early Growth
2-3 weeksCotyledons unfold, first true leaves emerge; plants develop compound leaves and begin climbing tendrils
Thin seedlings to proper spacing once 2-3 inches tall; install trellising or stakes early to avoid damaging roots; keep consistently watered
Vegetative & Vine Development
2-4 weeksVigorous vertical growth; tall vines extend 4-6 feet; numerous compound leaves and branching tendrils cover the structure
Ensure sturdy support structure; gently guide tendrils onto trellis; avoid excess nitrogen to prevent excessive foliage; water regularly but reduce frequency as flowering approaches
Flowering
1-2 weeksSmall white flowers appear in pairs along the stems, typically white with faint pink or purple tinges
Continue consistent watering; refrain from over-fertilizing; flowers are self-pollinating but benefit from gentle air movement; watch for pollinator visits
Pod Development & Harvest
2-3 weeks of productive harvestingFlowers mature into large, plump 4-5 inch pods filled with round, sweet peas; pods progress from green to slightly lighter green when ready
Pick pods regularly to encourage continued production; harvest when pods are full but still tender; pick in early morning for best flavor and sweetness
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings
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Plant early or late to avoid peak weevil activity; use row covers until flowering; store harvested peas in sealed containers with dry ice or diatomaceous earth
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Maintain consistent moisture to discourage mites; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity around plants
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur dust or neem oil at first sign of infection
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and
Use netting over seedlings; employ scare devices; provide alternative food sources away from plants
Uses
Fresh eating and cooking
CulinaryTelephone peas are prized for their large, tender, and exceptionally sweet peas perfect for fresh shelling and eating raw or lightly cooked. The pods are also edible when young and tender, suitable for snap pea preparation. [source]
Freezing and preservation
CulinaryThese peas freeze exceptionally well, retaining their sweetness and texture for months. Simply blanch briefly, cool in ice water, and freeze for convenient winter use in soups, stews, and side dishes. [source]
Pea shoots and microgreens
CulinaryYoung pea shoots are edible and nutritious, offering a delicate sweet flavor and tender texture suitable for salads and garnishes. [source]
Nitrogen fixation and soil improvement
HouseholdLike all legumes, Telephone peas harbor nitrogen-fixing bacteria in root nodules, naturally enriching the soil and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers in the garden. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeThe delicate white flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting garden biodiversity and the broader ecosystem. [source]
Harvest Tips
Harvest pods when fully plump but still tender, typically 18-20 days after flowering; pick in early morning for maximum sweetness and moisture; snap pods off the vine rather than pulling; continue harvesting to encourage more pod development; pods are best used fresh within 1-2 days but can be frozen or shelled and dried for storage
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Telephone peas were introduced by the Sutton seed company in 1880 and remain one of the most beloved heirloom pea varieties nearly 150 years later.
- 🌱 The name 'Telephone' was reportedly inspired by Alexander Graham Bell's recent invention, reflecting Victorian enthusiasm for modern technology at the time.
- 🌱 These tall, vigorous vines can produce 100+ pods per plant when well-supported and regularly harvested, making them extremely prolific for gardeners with adequate space.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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