LATHYRUS ODORATUS — Old varieties with fragrant flowers

If there is one plant that fills the garden with scent and color, it is the Lathyrus odoratus, in other words, the sweet pea. This beautiful annual climbing vine is known for its intensely fragrant flowers, which you can already smell without having to stick your nose in the flowers. Moreover, sweet peas are popular as cut flowers: the more you pick, the more flowers appear. This makes them a perfect choice for any gardening enthusiast who loves a classic, fragrant sea of flowers.

The origin of the fragrant sweet pea

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The history of the sweet pea takes us back to southern Italy. In 1695, the Franciscan monk Francisco Cupani described a climbing plant with fragrant, bicoloured flowers that he had discovered in Sicily. This original species, named 'Cupani', is still considered one of the most fragrant varieties.

Father Cupani sent seeds to botanists across Europe, which laid the foundation for the popularity of sweet peas, especially in England. Until the end of the 18th century, only a handful of varieties were known: black, purple, red, white and bicolour 'Painted Lady'.

In the late 19th century, a major breakthrough came: the introduction of the 'Grandiflora', a variety with larger flowers in a wide range of colors. Later, in 1901, the 'Spencer' varieties into a new era with their larger flowers and long stems. Unfortunately, this progress came at the expense of smell. Modern varieties often lack the powerful scent that made the original varieties so popular.

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How can you sow scented peas yourself?

Sowing sweet peas is easy and rewards you with months of flowering.

1. Preparation
   Soak the seeds overnight in lukewarm water. This is not necessary, but it does accelerate germination. This softens the hard seed coat so that the seedlings can grow through them faster and easier.
2. Sow in pots
   Plant the seeds two per pot, about 2 cm deep, in loose, nutritious seed soil. This can be done as early as February, preferably in a cold greenhouse or container. At a temperature of 15°C, the seeds germinate within two weeks.
3. Outplant
   Once the seedlings are 10-15 cm tall, you can plant them out at their final location. Sweet peas are not sensitive to frost and can therefore be put outside early. A mulch layer of straw keeps the soil cool and moist.
4. Sow outdoors
   In April, you can sow directly into the open ground. Add compost to enrich the soil and protect the seedlings from birds. After all, they love those tender germ leaves.
5. grooming
   Cut the tops of the plants when they are 15-20 cm tall. This stimulates branching and results in stronger plants.

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Location and care

Sweet peas thrive best in a sunny spot with moist, well-drained soil. They also grow well in large pots, provided they get enough water and compost. Provide a sturdy climbing aid, such as a rack or mesh, where the plants can grow.

Keep in mind that sweet peas can be susceptible to white sickness and lice, especially during dry periods. A layer of mulch and combining sweet peas with low-growing annuals help keep the soil cool and fresh while hiding any yellowing leaves.

Prolonged flowering and endless bouquets

From June to the end of September, you can enjoy the flowers. The more flowers you cut, the longer the flowering lasts. The old, fragrant varieties, such as Cupani and Painted Lady, not only provide a visual treat but also a lovely scent that is reminiscent of times gone by.

Make your garden a romantic paradise with these timeless classics. Give them a spot in the sun, and they will reward you with endless fragrant flowers.

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In our webshop, you can find the following varieties:

America - Black Knight- Cupani - Janet Scott - Lord Nelson - Matucana - Old Spice Captain Of TheBlues - Old Spice King Edward VII - Painted Lady - Perfume Promise - Ripple Mix- Royal Family - Scenation Mix - Spencer Arthur Hellyer - Wiltshire Ripple - Lady Grisel Hamilton - Burgundy - Lavender - White.

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