Pea Piccolo Provenzale (Pisum sativum L.) is a rustic dwarf heirloom variety, affectionately known as âPetit de Provenceâ. This small, countryâstyle pea is prized for its flavour and traditional charm. Compact plants produce abundant pods filled with sweet peas, making it an excellent choice for home gardeners and heritage seed enthusiasts.
Featured on the BBC programme âGrow Your Ownâ with Carol Kline in January 2007, this variety has a long history of reliability and taste. With approximately 200 seeds per packet (70 g), Piccolo Provenzale is perfect for fresh eating, freezing, or adding to soups and risottos.
ðą Sowing information
- Sow from February to midâMay for spring crops, and again from July to end of November for autumn sowings.
- Plant seeds 3â5 cm deep in drills spaced 40â45 cm apart.
- Compact plants require little support, making them ideal for smaller gardens.
âïļ Light exposure
Prefers full sun for strong growth and sweet pods. Partial shade is tolerated but may reduce yields.
ð§ Water needs
Keep soil evenly moist, especially during flowering and pod formation. Avoid waterlogging.
ðĄïļ Germination temperature & time
Seeds germinate at 7â18 °C, usually within 7â14 days.
ð Plant spacing & final size
Space plants 5â8 cm apart in rows 40â45 cm apart. Mature plants remain dwarf, around 40â50 cm tall.
