Bicolor sweet peas have always had darker upper petals than lower petals. Erewhon, a true reverse bicolor sweet pea, changes our notion of what a bicolor sweet pea can be. The deep lavender blue lower petals (wings) are darker than soft pink upper petals (standards).
The highly fragrant, colorful flowers are held on long, strong stems. Erewhon sweet peas make impressive sweetly scented bouquets. Plants grow 6-8 ft. tall.
Erewhon sweet pea is a cross of Lathyrus odoratus and the strongly fragrant L. belinensis, first discovered in Turkey 30 years ago.
Plant Sweet Pea Seeds: Start seeds in winter or early spring, about 6 to 8 weeks before your last frost date. Prior to sowing, nick the outer seed coating with nail clippers or soak in water for 6 to 8 hours to allow for faster hydration and improved germination. Sow in 4 in. pots, using a seed starting mix, with 2 to 3 seeds per pot. Sow seeds ½ to 1 in. deep, keep out of direct sun. Once germination occurs, provide direct light. With soil temperature kept at 55 to 65°F, germination is in 7 to 21 days. Thin seedlings down to 1 per container about 1 week after germination. Transplant into the garden once soil can be worked and seedlings have 2 to 3 sets of leaves. In mild climates, seeds can be directly sown in fall. Plants grow best with 6 to 12 in. spacing.
Grow Sweet Peas: Full sun to part shade. Rich, moist, well-drained soil. Protect young seedlings from slugs, snails and birds. For fuller plants, pinch or cut back seedlings when there are 3 to 4 sets of leaves. To promote a longer bloom season, deadhead frequently.