Growing Cowpeas

Cowpeas, also known as the Southern peas or Black Eyed peas, are highly nutritious, tasty, and easily grown. They are eaten both as fresh shelled green peas or as dry peas. There are three basic types: blackeye, crowder, and cream seed types.

 Cowpeas grow in a slender pod which looks like a green bean. Six to ten inch pods contain tan colored beans.  "Black Eyed Peas" have a black circle on it with a beige spot in the middle of the circle.

Each type has a distinct appearance and flavor. Cowpeas are very susceptible to cold and should not be planted until the soil temperatures are at least 70F (20 C). There are many varieties that are resistant or tolerant to several diseases and root-knot nematodes.

These annual legumes grow well on the sandy infertile soils as well as the richer clay soils with little preparation. One of the easiest forage crops to plant either in rows, broadcast plots or in favorite mixes. The vining type is preferred for forage or cover crop use, while the bush type is better suited for direct combining. Cowpeas are planted in April through September depending upon the zone and is the weather is good germination can be in three to seven days.

Plant outdoors after the last frost date, and when the soil has warmed. Sow seeds directly into the garden. They germinate best at a soil temperature of 65 degrees or higher. Follow the spacing directions on the packet. Seeds germinate in 7-10 days.

Grow cowpeas in full sun. They prefer rich, well draining soil. Add compost prior to planting. Apply a side dressing of fertilizer to give these plants a fast start as soon as they germinate.  Thin seedling to proper distance, as noted on the seed packet. If there are no directions, space plants three inches apart in rows three feet apart.

Heavy applications of nitrogen fertilizer should not be used for southern peas. Fertilize moderately with a low-nitrogen analysis such as 4-12-12. For the effort necessary to grow them, few if any other vegetables will pay higher dividends than Southern table peas.

Cowpea plants are tolerant of heat and dry weather conditions. However, for maximum growth and harvest, water frequently, especially during dry periods. Try to keep the leaves dry as you water. This will help avoid fungus diseases.

Bacterial and wilt diseases are common among the Bean family. This plant disease arrives with summer heat and humidity. This often occurs just before, or during, the ripening of the crop. Fungicides are recommended in areas of high heat and humidity.

Young, tender leaves are edible. Pick as needed for salads. Or, cook them like spinach.  Many gardeners who are new to cowpeas, do not know that the young pods are edible, too. Pick when very young, as the pods get tough and stringy early. Most people harvest Cowpeas for the bean inside. If harvesting "green" pick when young. For dried beans, pick after the pods have dried. The beans can be allowed to dry right on the vine.