Sweet Pea Cupani Seeds

Sow ‘Cupani’ sweet pea seeds in autumn or early spring for strong, healthy plants. Soak the seeds overnight before planting to help them germinate, then plant them in deep pots or seed trays with moist, well-drained compost. Keep them in a cool, bright place and transplant outside once the risk of frost has passed.

Train the plants up supports like trellises or obelisks, and water regularly. Pick flowers often to encourage more blooms and enjoy their wonderful scent all summer long.

No, sweet peas are not invasive. It’s a climbing plant, but not one that spreads uncontrollably – while it can spread if left to self-seed, it won’t take over your garden. Regular deadheading or cutting flowers for vases will keep it tidy.

Both ‘Cupani’ and ‘Matucana’ sweet peas have deep purple and magenta flowers with a strong, sweet fragrance. ‘Cupani’ is the original, dating back to 1699, while ‘Matucana’ is a modern selection bred for its rich colour and scent. ‘Matucana’ tends to have slightly larger blooms, but both varieties are excellent choices for climbing displays and cut flowers.