Snow peas are very easy to grow. You can sow the seed directly into the garden or start them in pots before planting out.

These plants will need some support. Lattice or wire netting is fine and the plants will soon cling to the support with their tendrils.

Space your plants about 10cm apart and you should be harvesting in about three to four months. Snow peas can be eaten raw in salads or cooked in a stir-fry.

All types of peas can be planted now. 

When it comes to companion planting peas grow well with most other plants, just keep them away from onions or garlic.

Companion planting is a method of growing plants together so that they assist each other. This could include deterring insect pests, enhancing flavour and improving plant growth. I companion plant in my own garden and to some extent it does work. Surprisingly enough, there are some plants that really dislike being near certain other types of plants.

Peas planted too close to onions don’t thrive as they should.

Broad beans are also very easy to grow, however they need to be planted as soon as possible for best results, so plant them now.

Plant the beans directly into the garden or start from young seedlings. Direct seeding is preferable. Space the seeds or plants about 20cm apart and start harvesting in about three to four months. The more pods you pick the more you will get.

As a child I remember well my dad’s yearly crop of broad beans, we ate them with every evening meal. At that time I didn’t appreciate them very much, but now I like them in moderation.

In windy locations you will need to provide some posts with supporting strings or wires – this will stop the plants from falling over in the wind.

Broad beans are versatile. Young beans can be eaten whole, no shelling needed, but as the pods get bigger they do get a bit tough. The leafy top part of the plants can also be picked and steamed. For companion planters – broad beans grow well with dill and potatoes.

Other types of beans such as climbers and runners are best planted in spring.

So work on your climbing supports and get your peas and broad beans planted.

Diary: Winter Pruning short course Saturday, July 16, 9am – noon, $50,  horticulture department at Wodonga TAFE. Phone 02 6055 6644 for more information or to enrol.

Friends of Willow Park, National Tree Day event. Sunday, July 31, Wodonga.

For more information on this event visit treeday.planetark.org