What is the difference between garden peas and petit pois?

Garden peas and petit pois are both varieties of peas but they differ in several key ways. Here, we'll explore their differences in size, flavor, texture, and culinary uses, providing insights that can help home growers identify which type best suits their needs.

Garden Peas

Size: Garden peas are larger and more mature than petit pois. These peas are harvested when they are fully grown and ready for consumption. Their larger size makes them ideal for cooking in a variety of dishes.

Flavor: Garden peas have a more robust, earthy flavor. This is due to their fully matured state, which enhances their natural flavors. Their full-bodied taste is well-suited for dishes such as soups, stews, and side dishes.

Texture: Garden peas are typically firmer and have a thicker pod. This texture withstands the rigors of cooking and gives dishes a satisfying mouthfeel. They are commonly used in frozen or canned forms for long-term storage.

Culinary Use: Garden peas are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. They are often incorporated into soups, stews, and side dishes, providing a hearty and nutritious element to these meals. Their robust flavor and texture make them excellent choices for consumers who prefer more substantial and earthy flavors in their food.

Petit Pois

Size: Petit pois are smaller, younger peas, often harvested before they reach full maturity. These peas are at their peak when they are still tender and sweet.

Flavor: Petit pois are sweeter and more tender than garden peas, with a delicate and subtle taste. Their tender texture and mild flavor make them a favorite among consumers who appreciate a delicate balance of flavor and texture.

Texture: Petit pois have a softer texture, which makes them ideal for quick cooking. Their mild taste and soft texture also make them a popular choice for gourmet dishes, salads, and garnishes due to their visual appeal and subtle sweetness.

Culinary Use: Petit pois are often featured in fine dining as they are commonly used in gourmet dishes, salads, and as a garnish. Their sweetness and delicate flavor make them a versatile and preferred choice for many chefs and home cooks.

It is clear that the main differences between garden peas and petit pois lie in their size, flavor, texture, and culinary applications. Petit pois are a more refined version of garden peas, prized for their sweetness and tenderness.

Building a Deep Water Culture Hydroponic System for Growing Peas

If you are interested in hydroponics for growing peas or any other vegetables, you may be wondering where to start. Our Head Farmer at Square Mile Farms, Dish, has been experimenting with growing 40 types of vegetables, herbs, and microgreens on our Paddington rooftop farm, as well as in our office farm installations. He is on a mission to help London workers reconnect with their food by helping them grow it themselves.

Benefits of Hydroponics

A regular supply of fresh, nutritious produce can be obtained without frequent trips to the supermarket. Hydroponic systems can be built using a variety of hydroponic methods, from simple to complex. The Deep Water Culture (DWC) system is the simplest type of hydroponic system to understand and maintain at home.

In this blog, we'll cover the DWC system and how to build one in no time at all. This method involves submerging the plant roots directly in nutrient-rich water. The benefits of DWC include a lack of moving parts, making it simple and cheap to build and maintain.

How a Deep Water Culture Hydroponic System Works

In the DWC system, plants grow with their roots submerged directly in nutrient-rich water. For home growers, this can be achieved by growing in large opaque storage containers or buckets. Commercial growers use rafts that float on a large bed of water, much like a conveyor belt. Young plants are added at one end, and they slide along until they are ready for harvest at the other end.

The simplicity of the DWC system makes it ideal for beginners and experts alike. The system is relatively simple and inexpensive to build, and the lack of moving water means there is less maintenance involved. To ensure that the water remains oxygen-rich, an air pump with an air stone attached is used. This method helps to ensure that the roots can continue to take in oxygen, which is essential for their health and growth.

Which Crops are Best for DWC Systems?

The best crops to grow in DWC systems are lettuce, kale, chard, bok choy, basil, and parsley. These plants are well-suited for this type of system because they are not too top-heavy and have shallow root systems. Additionally, the roots are not well anchored in the DWC system, making it ideal for growing these plants.

For deeper storage containers or buckets, the nutrient solution remains stable and less likely to fluctuate with smaller reservoirs. However, it is important to regularly monitor and top up the water to maintain the right nutrient concentration and pH levels.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between garden peas and petit pois can help you choose which type is best for your needs. Whether you are looking for a robust, earthy flavor or a sweet, delicate taste, each variety has its unique qualities and uses.

Interested in starting your own hydroponic garden? A Deep Water Culture system is a great way to begin. Its simplicity and cost-effectiveness make it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced growers. With a little know-how, you can grow fresh, nutritious produce right in your own home. Happy growing!