by Angie Pollock

Created on: September 23, 2008   Last Updated: October 07, 2008

Cowpeas commonly known as black-eyed peas are a native food source to Africa. Traditionally considered a southern food in the United States, the black-eyed pea has become increasingly popular in other parts of the country. This small but important legume was a staple for Southerners who may have starved following the Civil War.

Thriving in warm climates, the black-eyed pea should be planted and grown in full sun. The seeds can be planted outdoors after the possibilities of frost have passed and the soil has warmed. Black-eyed peas grow beautifully in the south but because of their long maturity process, most northern areas may not have a long enough growing season to enjoy this plant in their gardens.

The plant does not grow well when transplanted and is most commonly started from seeds. The vines will expand so the seeds should be planted two inches apart and later thinned to three to four inches as they begin to grow. The plant is tolerant of hot, dry weather and should have well draining yet rich soil. During dry periods, the plants should be watered frequently without getting the leaves wet. Compost or mulch will help the plants retain moisture and will add vital nutrients to the soil. The cowpea can grow in poor soil but for maximum growth, fertilize the plants once a month after they begin to grow.

The black-eyed pea does have its problems with pests as well as some diseases. Deer and wild turkey enjoy eating the young, tender plants and disease can become a problem with high temperatures mixed with humidity. If your plants are being overrun or destroyed, there are insecticides and fungicides to help control these unwanted problems. For larger animals, your plants may need to be fenced or pest netting can be utilized to help against unwanted animals nibbling on your precious garden. Since the black-eyed pea grows on vines, some gardeners will run cords or string down the rows so the plants can grow up off of the ground which can also help keep the leaves dry when watering.

The black-eyed pea seed will germinate in as little as seven to ten days and will mature in eighty to ninety days with proper care. There are a few species that require less or even more time to reach maturity. Harvesting of the pods depend upon how the peas will be utilized. If picking for the dried beans inside the pod, pick the pods when they have dried. When wanting to harvest the green pod, pick the pods when they are young as they tend to get tough as they age. Many gardeners are not aware that the leaves on the vine are also edible. The leaves make a nice addition to salads and can also be cooked and eaten just as you would spinach.

The black-eyed pea is a popular dish at New Year's Eve but you may want to consider eating this legume on a regular basis for the health benefits alone. Providing a number of nutrients, rich in iron and fiber, the black-eyed pea is also an excellent source of calcium and vitamin A. Whether these small beans bring good luck on New Year's Eve or not, it is certain that black-eyed peas are filling and promote a healthy diet.

Sources:
http://www.gardenersnet.com/vegetable/cowpeas.htm
http://www.vegetarian-nutrition.info/updates/vegetar ian_diets_health_benefits.php
GROWING HERBS AND VEGETABLES: FROM SEED TO HARVEST by Mark Silber and Terry Silber, copyright 1999.

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