MICROGREEN Pea Seeds
Botanical name: Pisum sativum
Pea shoots are among the most rewarding microgreens to grow. Their naturally sweet flavour and crisp texture make them a favourite in salads, wraps, stir-fries, and other fresh dishes. Sprouting enhances both their taste and nutritional value by boosting sugar content and improving digestibility.
These seeds are ideal for home gardeners and small-scale growers across Australia. They’re affordable, high-yielding, and well suited to soil- or coir-based growing systems. Pea shoots grow best in cool to mild conditions and can be harvested in just 10 to 14 days.
Nutritional Benefits
Pea shoots are packed with plant-based nutrients, making them a great addition to any diet.
- High protein content: 20–25%
- Rich in vitamins A, C, and K
- Provides calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium
- Contains amino acids, chlorophyll, and antioxidants
For a full breakdown of nutrients, view the Microgreen Nutritional Profile (PDF).
Why Grow Pea Shoots
- Easy to grow for beginners
- Cut-and-come-again harvest potential
- Low cost per tray
- Excellent addition to a wide range of meals
Growing Instructions
Growing Medium
- Use organic soil or coir peat
- Not recommended for hydroponics or hemp mats due to dense root structure
Seeding Rate
- 25–40 g for a small tray (punnet-sized)
- 100 g for a standard 30 x 35 cm tray
Soaking
- Soak in cool water for 4–8 hours
- Overnight soak is suitable for hydroponic setups
- Seeds will expand significantly—use plenty of water
Temperature
- Best results between 15–25 °C
- Avoid heatwaves or frost — extreme temperatures may affect germination
Tray Preparation
- Fill tray with 2–3 cm of growing medium
- Mix in compost or vermiculite if desired
- Level and moisten surface
- Spread seeds evenly without overlap
- Press gently and mist with water
Germination & Blackout Phase
- Cover tray with a second tray or breathable cloth to block light
- Store in a cool, ventilated space for 2–3 days
- Water lightly once or twice daily
Stacking
- Stack trays during the blackout phase to aid germination
Light Exposure & Harvest
- Uncover after 2–3 days when shoots emerge
- Expose to sunlight or grow lights
- Water twice daily without overwatering
- Ready to harvest in 10–14 days
Need More Help?
For a full guide with photos and troubleshooting tips, visit our blog:
How to Grow Pea Shoots in 10 Easy Steps.