When to Plant Peas in Ontario
Published: April 24, 2026 · Updated: April 27, 2026
One of the first vegetables of spring — peas go in 4–6 weeks before last frost when soil is just workable. Tolerate light frost and actually prefer cool temperatures under 70°F.
Peas are one of the best Canadian crops — plant as soon as soil is workable, 4–6 weeks before last frost. They tolerate the light spring frosts common to all Canadian provinces.
Peas Planting Window for Ontario
Direct sow outdoors: March 16–26
Minimum soil temperature: 4°C (40°F)
Days to harvest: 55–70 days
Sun requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Fall crop planting: August 23–September 2
⚠ Plant peas 4–6 weeks before last frost — one of the first vegetables of spring. Tolerate light frost. Also plant in late summer for a fall harvest.
Ontario Cities — Peas Planting Dates
City-specific frost dates and pea planting windows for Ontario.
Growing Peas in Ontario
- Soak pea seeds overnight before planting to speed germination in cool soil.
- Install a 4–6 foot trellis at planting time — peas climb from day one and produce more per square foot when supported.
- Sow every 2 weeks through early spring for a continuous 6-week harvest window.
- Plant a second crop 10–12 weeks before first fall frost for autumn harvests; shade cloth helps germination in warm soil.
Companion Planting for Peas
In Ontario gardens, pair pea with Carrot, Radish, Cucumber, Corn. Avoid planting near Onion, Garlic, Chive, which compete with or inhibit pea growth.
Common Pests and Problems
Peas in Ontario are commonly affected by Pea Aphid, Powdery Mildew, Root Rot, Pea Weevil. Floating row covers installed at planting block most adult pests from laying eggs, and a weekly scouting routine catches infestations before they damage the crop.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant pea in Ontario?
In Ontario (Canadian Zones 5b–6b), direct sow pea around March 16. Peas are one of the best Canadian crops — plant as soon as soil is workable, 4–6 weeks before last frost. They tolerate the light spring frosts common to all Canadian provinces.
What is the best pea variety for Ontario?
Ontario gardeners should prioritise varieties bred for shorter seasons or Canadian climates. For peas in Canadian Zones 5b–6b, look for cultivars labelled under 70 days to maturity. Local nurseries and provincial seed exchanges curate varieties that ripen within Canadian frost-free windows.
How does Ontario's climate affect pea?
Ontario spans Canadian Zones 5b–6b with frost-free seasons ranging from roughly 153 to 195 days. Peas actually prefer the cooler spring and fall windows typical of Ontario, making them one of the most reliable crops in the province.
Can I grow pea in containers in Ontario?
Yes. Container growing on balconies and patios extends the viable growing area across every Canadian province. Dark-coloured containers warm up faster in spring and extend the season on both ends. Choose a 5-gallon or larger pot for pea and water daily during hot summer weather, since containers dry out quickly.
When is the first fall frost in Ontario?
First fall frost dates in Ontario range from October 15 in the coldest areas to November 1 in the warmest. For a fall pea crop, count back from your local first-frost date and plant around August 23–September 2.