Build a teepee

Peas need somewhere to climb. A teepee makes a great climbing frame for the garden or you can build one in a large container. Make your teepee from sticks and twigs or bamboo stakes. Push stakes in firmly around the edges of a large container or make a circle in the garden. Tie them together at the top with garden string, then wind more string around the teepee frame to help the young pea seedlings climb. Once they produce tendrils, they'll cling on all by themselves.

1 Build a teepee or climbing frame in a sunny spot with loose crumbly soil or a large pot (or grow bag) filled with growing mix.

2 Plant seeds about 2cm deep and about 10cm apart around and under the teepee.

3 Water to keep the soil moist. It should never dry out but don't keep it soaking wet or the seeds will rot.

4 Feed your pea seedlings with liquid fertiliser once they are 5-10cm high.

5 Cover the soil around your pea plants with straw or compost to keep their roots cool and moist.

6 Start picking! Peas are ready about 2 months after sowing. They taste best when young and tender. The more you pick the more peas your plants will make! The same goes for sweet pea flowers.