@mikel (2nd question)
Sow Sweet Pea seeds early in spring either by planting the seeds directly in the ground or in pots in a sunny place indoors. If you have a garden spot prepared, sow your seeds just below the soil surface.
In my practice, I sow them indoors in cell trays under a clear dome, which gets them up and growing. I transplant them outside after they are 3-5 inches tall, at which stage they can withstand a little slug damage and they are no longer mice bait.
These were sown March 1st, that’s Oregon Sugar Pod II (edible peas) in the front tray and the sweet pea seedlings in the tray behind. I took this photo yesterday, and put these indoors last night in case of snow. They are hardy plants but probably not stout enough to carry a load!
Give peas a chance!
