Sweet peas are one of the easiest—and most rewarding—flowers to save seeds from. Their large, easy-to-handle pods mean you only need a handful to grow a beautiful patch next season. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the quickest, most reliable method I use every year.
Know When Seeds Are Ready to Harvest
Sweet pea pods start green—but patience pays off! Only harvest once the pods are fully brown and dry on both sides. That’s when they’re mature and viable.
Perform the Scratch Test
Gently scrape your fingernail along the pod:
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Hollow sound = seeds are ready.
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Soft, green, or mixed color = leave the pod on the plant a bit longer.
Why Timing Is Everything
Picking pods too early means the seeds inside might still be green—not ready. These immature seeds risk:
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Mold in storage
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Wrinkling or rotting during drying
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Poor germination
Extra Harvesting Tips
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Harvest in dry weather, not early morning dew or right after rain.
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Use paper bags or breathable materials—avoid plastic that traps moisture.
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Discard any moldy pods or seeds.
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Water plants lightly as pods dry—too wet encourages mold, too dry stops seed development.
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Once fully dry, store seeds airtight in the freezer for long-term viability
Seed Storage & Longevity
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Dry thoroughly before storing—if they feel soft or green, let them air-dry longer.
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Properly stored seeds (dry + airtight) can last 2–3 years, though best germination is within the first year.
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Freezing helps prolong lifespan and protects against pests.
FAQ – Quick Answers
Q: Can I save sweet pea seeds from store-bought bouquets?
Not usually. These are cut before pods mature—best results come from garden-grown plants.
Q: Do carrots need drying before storing?
I think you meant sweet pea seeds—yes! Drying is essential for proper storage.
Q: Can I freeze my seeds?
Absolutely—freeze them once they’re completely dry for longer storage.
Q: How many seeds do I need?
Just a small handful! Each pod holds multiple seeds—one plant usually yields more than enough for a patch.
With a little patience and the right timing, you’ll build a stash of healthy sweet pea seeds ready for next spring. Want early access to our new sweet pea collections? Sign up for our email list—seed sale coming late October!