The New Student's Reference Work/Sweet Pea

Sweet Pea, (Lathyrus odoratus) a familiar garden-plant much prized for its beautiful perfumed flowers. There are not far short of 100 varieties in cultivation; and to raise them to perfection, the seeds should be planted two inches apart in a rich clay-loam, and it will be well to red-lead them, to protect them from mice and birds. As soon as the plants appear above ground, brush or small twigs should be spread around them for shelter, and later they should be given long stakes for support in their upward climb. Through the growing season occasional shallow cultivation will be required.