How Do You Soak Pea Seeds Before Planting?
If you are ready to plant your garden and plan on growing peas, consider soaking the seeds prior to planting. Although this is not necessary, soaking pea seeds can help speed up germination. Peas are not only full of nutrients, they are one of the first vegetables ready for harvest. Nick the outer shell of the pea seed prior to soaking. Penetrate the shell once with a sharp tool such as a needle or the tip of a small knife. You need something to just make a little nick so that the water can penetrate the seed. Do not make the nick near the eye of the pea. Moisten two paper towels with water. Wring out the paper towels so they are wet but not soaking. Lay one paper towel down on the counter. Spread out the pea seeds in one layer onto the paper towel. If you have a lot of seeds, it may be necessary to use more than one paper towel. Lay the other wet paper towel on top of the pea seeds. Let the seeds soak overnight. Plant your pea seeds the next day.
