Green Peas – A Universal High-Protein Plant and Excellent Catch Crop

Green peas is a plant rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, which makes it one of the most versatile high-protein plants. Thanks to these properties, it is widely used for both consumption and feed purposes. Green peas are also of great importance in agriculture as one of the basic processed vegetables. What's more, the green parts of peas and their roots can be an excellent green fertilizer, used as a summer catch crop.

Advantages of growing green peas as a catch crop:

• Improving soil fertility: Peas fix nitrogen, which makes the soil more fertile. This reduces the need for artificial nitrogen fertilizers, which reduces fertilization costs.
• Soil aeration: The root system of green peas helps aerate the soil, preventing erosion and improving its structure.
• Support for soil organisms: Peas attract soil organisms, including earthworms, which improve the soil's ability to hold water. Additionally, bacteria associated with peas support soil health.
• An ideal element of crop rotation: As a legume, green peas can be grown in crop rotation, especially before crops requiring high amounts of nitrogen (e.g. corn, tomatoes), optimizing yields with less use of synthetic fertilizers.
• Weed control: Thanks to its rapid growth, peas effectively suppress weed development, especially in the initial growth phase.

Growing green peas: Green peas are an undemanding plant, ideal for organic farming, where the aim is to naturally enrich the soil. They grow well in soil with a pH of 6-7, moderately moist and permeable. They can be sown both in spring and after the harvest of the main crops (e.g. cereals or potatoes).

The use of green peas in fishing: Green peas are also an effective bait in fishing, especially when combined with other grains such as corn or hemp. The smell and taste of peas attract fish from the Cyprinidae family, and peas can be used from spring to late autumn.

Preparing green peas for bait:

1. Rinsing: The peas should be rinsed in cold water.
2. Soaking: Soak the peas for several hours, preferably overnight.
3. Cooking: Cook the peas for 40-60 minutes, until soft but not mushy. Then set aside to cool.
4. Groundbait: The water in which we cooked the peas can also be used for groundbait, increasing its attractiveness.

Green peas are a plant with a wide range of uses, both in agriculture and fishing. Thanks to their properties and ease of cultivation, they are an excellent choice as a catch crop and natural fertilizer that will enrich your soil and support the development of your plants.