Purple Hull Peas

[Southern Gardener]

I planted 6 more rows last week and I'm amazed at how good they are doing compared to the ones I planted in the spring. The spring crop took a while to take off, but not these.

I read that southern peas can be used as a cover crop. So when do I till them in? After they finish producing in the fall or do I wait until the spring?

 

[hoodat]

Southern (cow) peas are heat lovers. Temps above 100 don't faze them. If you want to get a crop, mow the vines after the harvest and before you till and compost them or dry and use for mulch. If you try to till in the vines your tines will be wrapped in them in no time and you'll have a mess getting them off. If you only want them for green manure, till before the vines form.

 

[Southern Gardener]

Excellent! I'm going to mow after the harvest and then till.

 

[hoodat]

The dried vines also make good hay for cattle, goats and horses.