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Seed | Oregon Giant Snow Peas

Seed | Oregon Giant Snow Peas

$3.99 CAD
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Oregon Giant snow peas produce abundant pods of flat, fleshy, and exceptionally large pods. This robust variety grows to 120-150 cm tall and is resistant to common diseases.

A LITTLE HISTORY

Snow peas, also known by their scientific name Pisum sativum var. macrocarpon, have a fascinating history dating back thousands of years. Native to the region along the Thai-Burma border, they are among the earliest cultivated plants, with records of their cultivation dating back 12,000 years.

  • Origins and Ancient Cultivation
    Snow peas are often associated with the beginnings of agriculture, when early human communities began cultivating plants for a more sedentary diet. Their easy adaptation and nutritional value made them a valuable food in many ancient cultures.
  • Modern Selection: Oregon Giant Variety
    The Oregon Giant variety is a notable example of modern snow pea breeding. It was developed by Dr. James Baggett of Oregon State University, a renowned horticultural researcher who devoted over 30 years to breeding and improving various vegetable varieties. The Oregon Giant variety is distinguished by its robust growth, reaching about 1 meter in height, and its generous, sweet pods measuring about 10 cm in length.
  • Botanical Characteristics and Resistance
    Oregon Giant snow peas have several important botanical characteristics. Their resistance to common diseases such as powdery mildew, common wilt, and enation mosaic make them an attractive choice for farmers and gardeners concerned about the health of their crops. Additionally, this variety shows some resistance to root rot, which contributes to its overall hardiness.
  • Culture and Use
    Oregon Giant snow peas can be grown without trellises, reaching a height of around 75 cm, making them manageable and practical for growing in home gardens and smallholdings. Their white blooms add an aesthetic touch when grown, contributing to their visual appeal in addition to their nutritional value.
  • Heritage and Dissemination
    Today, snow peas, including varieties like Oregon Giant, are valued not only for their sweet taste and crunchy texture, but also for their contribution to the genetic diversity of food crops. Their adaptation to diverse climates and long history of cultivation make them an important pillar in global food security and the preservation of agricultural traditions.

In conclusion, snow peas, with their rich history and modern adaptation, continue to be a valuable resource in global agriculture, reminding us of the importance of crop diversity in feeding populations throughout the ages.

PROPERTIES

Snow peas, while primarily valued for their nutritional value and culinary uses, may also offer some potential health benefits due to their nutrient composition. Here are some additional points about their potential medicinal properties:

  • Essential Nutrients
    Vitamins: Snow peas are a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for the immune system, skin health, and wound healing. They also contain significant amounts of vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone health.
  • Minerals: They provide potassium, which helps maintain fluid balance in the body and supports heart function, as well as iron, which is needed for the formation of red blood cells and the transport of oxygen throughout the body.
  • Fiber: Snow peas are high in dietary fiber, which can promote digestive health by improving bowel movements and supporting healthy gut flora.
  • Antioxidants
    Snow peas contain phytochemicals, including flavonoids and carotenoids, which act as antioxidants. These substances help neutralize free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and potentially helping prevent chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties
    Certain compounds found in snow peas, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in preliminary studies. This could be beneficial in reducing inflammation in the body, which is often associated with various diseases and conditions.
  • Traditional Use
    Although their primary use is culinary, in some alternative medicine traditions, snow peas may be recommended for their beneficial effects on digestion, the immune system, and overall health. They are often included in varied diets to maximize the intake of essential nutrients.

In summary, while snow peas are primarily valued for their nutritional and culinary value, they also offer potential health benefits as a source of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Incorporating these fresh vegetables into your diet can contribute to better overall health and well-being.

HOW TO COOK?

Snow peas are delicious and versatile in cooking, offering a crunchy texture and mild flavor that lends itself to a variety of preparations. Here are some common ways to cook snow peas:

  • Sautéed Snow Peas
    Ingredients :
    250g snow peas, washed and hulled
    1-2 cloves garlic, minced
    1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (e.g. olive oil or sesame oil)
    1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
    Salt and pepper to taste
    Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
    Instructions :
    Preparation of Snow Peas:

Trim the snow peas, removing any stringy ends if necessary.
Blasting:

Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and fry for about 30 seconds until lightly browned and fragrant.
Cooking Snow Peas:

Add the snow peas to the pan. Stir quickly to coat with the oil and garlic.
If desired, pour soy sauce over the snow peas. Stir to combine.
Blasting:

Sauté the snow peas for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender but still crisp.
Seasoning:

Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Service :

Remove from heat and serve warm, optionally garnished with sesame seeds for an extra crunch.

  • Steamed Snow Peas
    Ingredients :
    250g snow peas, washed and hulled
    Water for steam
    Salt to taste
    Instructions :
    Steam :

Fill a saucepan with about 2 cm of water and bring to a boil.
Cooking Snow Peas:

Place the snow peas in a steamer basket over boiling water.
Cover the pan and steam for about 3-4 minutes, until the snow peas are tender but still crisp.
Seasoning:

Remove from heat and sprinkle lightly with salt to taste.
Service :

Serve steamed snow peas hot as an accompaniment to other main dishes or as a light side dish.

  • Snow Pea Salad
    Ingredients :
    250g snow peas, washed and hulled
    1 carrot, grated
    1 red pepper, diced
    For the dressing:
    2 tablespoons of olive oil
    1 tablespoon of cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
    Salt and pepper to taste
    Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro) for garnish
    Instructions :
    Preparation of Snow Peas:

Trim the snow peas and slice them diagonally for an attractive presentation.
Preparation of the Vinaigrette:

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk well to combine.
Salad Assembly:

In a large bowl, mix the snow peas with the grated carrot and diced red pepper.
Seasoning:

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the vegetables.
Service :

Optionally garnish with chopped fresh herbs just before serving.
These simple and delicious methods showcase the freshness and crunchiness of snow peas, offering a variety of options for incorporating them into your everyday cooking. Whether sautéed, steamed, or in a salad, snow peas add a touch of freshness to your meals.

HOW TO GROW?

Our seeds are vigorous, open-pollinated and adapted to the Quebec climate.

  • Species: Pisum sativum var. macrocarpon
  • Sowing in open ground: Beginning, middle or end of May (consecutive sowing every week until mid-August)
  • A little tip for growing: broadcast your seeds. To enjoy snow peas in the cold season
    For outdoor greenhouses or cold frames, you can start sowing from September in consecutive sowings until mid-October and even November.
    to have snow peas during the cold winter season.
  • Sowing depth: 3 to 5 cm
  • Germination time: 6-10 days
  • Soil: Poor, humus-rich, loose and drained
  • Location: Sun and tolerates shade and cold very well
  • Spacing between plants: 4-6 cm
  • Height at maturity: 65 to 80 cm
  • Mature: 65 to 80 cm
  • Maturity: 60-65 days |
  • Seeds per envelope: +/- 50
    Our seeds are guaranteed for the year of purchase.

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