Sugar Snap Peas (Pisum sativum var. macrocarpon)

Sugar Snap Peas (Pisum sativum var. macrocarpon) are a popular cool-season vegetable known for their crisp texture and naturally sweet flavour. These edible-pod peas produce thick, juicy pods that can be eaten whole, making them ideal for fresh snacking, stir-fries, and salads.

Sugar snap peas grow on climbing or semi-climbing vines that produce abundant pods in cooler temperatures. They are highly productive when grown in early spring or late summer conditions and are well-suited to Alberta’s climate. Plants benefit from trellising or support to maximize yield, improve air circulation, and make harvesting easier.

As a nitrogen-fixing crop, sugar snap peas also contribute to soil health, making them a valuable addition to crop rotation and vegetable gardens. In Lethbridge, they are grown as a fast-maturing annual during the cool growing season.