Sweet Pea Dwarf Scarlet - Lathyrus odoratus

20 seeds

Vibrant Scarlet Blooms:

The large, scarlet-red flowers of Sweet Pea 'Dwarf Scarlet' are bright and eye-catching, adding a bold splash of color to any garden or container.

Fragrant:

Like all sweet peas, 'Dwarf Scarlet' is known for its intense fragrance, which is sweet, fresh, and delightful, making it an excellent choice for fragrant gardens and as a cut flower.

Compact Growth:

This dwarf variety has a bushy, compact growth habit, reaching heights of just 12-18 inches, making it perfect for small gardens, pots, hanging baskets, or window boxes.

Long-Lasting Blooms:

The plant produces an abundance of flowers from late spring to early summer, ensuring a prolonged display of color.

Pollinator-Friendly:

Sweet Pea 'Dwarf Scarlet' attracts beneficial pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, making it a great choice for creating a pollinator-friendly garden.

Light Requirements:

Sweet Pea 'Dwarf Scarlet' thrives in full sun. For the best results, plant in a spot that receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. This will encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Watering:

Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season. Water deeply but avoid waterlogging the soil, as this can cause root rot. Water when the top of the soil feels dry to the touch, but ensure that the soil is well-drained to prevent water from pooling around the roots.

Soil:

Sweet Peas prefer well-drained, rich soil with a slightly alkaline pH (6.5 to 7.5). Loamy or sandy soils work best, but for container gardening, a high-quality, well-draining potting mix is ideal. If planting in the ground, amend the soil with organic matter to improve fertility.

Fertilization:

Sweet Peas are not heavy feeders, but you can apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring when planting. For better flowering, you can use a phosphorus-rich fertilizer once buds start forming. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of flowers.

Pruning:

Regularly deadhead or remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production. This helps to extend the flowering period, keeping your garden looking fresh.

Support:

Although 'Dwarf Scarlet' is a smaller variety, it still benefits from a support structure like a small trellis or a stake. This will help keep the plant upright and allow it to climb slightly, showing off its blooms to their fullest.

Pests & Diseases:

Sweet Peas are generally pest-resistant, but keep an eye out for aphids, snails, or slugs. These can be controlled with natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap. Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal diseases such as powdery mildew.

Mulching:

A layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help conserve moisture, keep the soil cool, and suppress weeds. Just make sure the mulch is not piled up around the stems to avoid rot.

Container Gardening:

Sweet Pea 'Dwarf Scarlet' is perfect for containers and hanging baskets due to its compact size. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure your container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A small trellis or netting can help support the climbing stems.

Cut Flowers:

Sweet Pea 'Dwarf Scarlet' makes an excellent cut flower. Cut the blooms early in the day for the longest vase life. The vibrant red color and fragrance will brighten any indoor space.

Companion Planting:

This variety pairs well with roses, lavender, and marigolds, adding color and fragrance to garden beds or containers. It also works well in pollinator gardens, attracting bees and butterflies.