Undiscovered sweet peas

Don’t just plump for the same old sweet pea varieties. From tumblers and dwarf types to long-stemmed lovelies, the choice has never been greater, says Graham Rice

- Graham Rice

ALONG with roses and dahlias, annual sweet peas are among AG readers’ favourite flowers. We get questions about them, letters and emails about them, and photos showing how well you grow them. Consequently, they are a regular fixture on our pages.

But not everyone realises just how many different kinds of sweet peas there are. The Spencer varieties are pretty universally recognised, of course. First seen in 1901, the original frilly sweet peas were developed by Silas Cole, head gardener at the late Princess Diana’s ancestral home, Althorp in Northamptonshire, and caused uproar when they were exhibited in London.

Prior to that, pretty much the only sweet peas people grew were the Grandifloras – smaller-flowered and minus the frilly petals. We’ve come a long way since then, however, and the extensive range now includes dwarf types at just a few inches high – ideal in hanging baskets – and patio pot-friendly options that reach 39in (1m) or so.

Colours and patterns

There is also a vast variety of different colours, along with different patterns and blends of shades, too. Petals are striped and streaked in various ways and in varying bi-coloured combinations. These are especially appealing when cut for small vases, where their pretty flowers, not to mention their scent, can be appreciated at close quarters.

Ah, the scent. It’s often said that modern sweet peas have no scent… Rubbish! Many of those Grandifloras from over a century ago were beautifully scented, while some had no scent at all. Similarly, many of today’s Spencer varieties have a wonderful perfume; others are fragrance-free. Simply look for the scent ratings in catalogues and on the packets, and choose accordingly.