Do I need to treat my peas with an inoculant before planting?

Question:

Do I need to treat my peas with an inoculant before planting?

Answer:

Peas are members of the legume (Fabaceae) family.  Through a symbiotic relationship with a soil bacterium (Rhizobium), peas are able to “fix” atmospheric nitrogen in nodules on their roots. 

Peas will grow and produce a crop without inoculation.  However, inoculation with a nitrogen-fixing bacterium may be beneficial if peas have not been grown in the garden in the past.  Pea inoculants can be purchased at garden centers and from mail-order catalogs.  Inoculate pea seeds immediately before sowing.  Place a small amount of the pea inoculant into the seed packet and shake. 

Learn more in this article: Growing Peas in Iowa