California Black Eyed Cowpea

Black-Eyed Cowpeas are possibly the most popular of all the cowpeas. They are incredibly productive heat-loving white legumes with a small black spot around the seed scar of the mature pea and has a green hull that matures tan. They are prolific yielders of 6-inch long pods that contain 6-13 peas and can shell out easily. Gardeners appreciate their dual-purpose nature, as both the young pods and dried beans can be used in a variety of dishes. Their rich, nutty flavor enhances everything from hearty soups to traditional Southern recipes like Hoppin' Johns, Texas Caviar - or simply braise with pork or ham! They are an excellent source of dietary fiber and protein. Black-Eyed Cowpeas also mature quickly, providing a reliable harvest in a short growing season. With their minimal care requirements, ability to attract beneficial insects, and rich cultural history, these cowpeas are a rewarding addition to any home garden.

Also Known As: Black-Eyed Peas, Southern Peas, Crowder Peas, Cow Beans, China Beans, Field Peas, Goat Peas, Calico Beans, Purple Hull Peas, Cream Peas, and Marble Peas.

Plant Name:	Cowpea, California Blackeye No. 5
Latin Name:	Vigna unguiculata
Days to Germinate:	7-14
Days to Harvest:	90
Plant Height:	18 - 36 Inches
Spread:	18 - 24 inches
Growth Habit:	Bush
USDA Zones:	3-11
Lifespan:	Annual
Brand:	TomorrowSeeds
Sunlight:	Full Sun, Partial Shade
Pollination:	Heirloom, Open-Pollinated
GMO:	No
Fungicide-Treated Seeds*:	No
Seeds Packed For**:	2025

*Fungicide-treated seeds protect the seedlings from diseases until they are up and growing. Do not eat treated seeds.
**Seeds are freshly packed for the growing season of the year listed. Seeds are still viable beyond pack date. Store in a cool and dry location such as the refrigerator or basement to best preserve germination rates.

Planting Instructions:

Soil Preparation:

Choose an area with heavy, well-draining soil that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Remove weeds, large rocks, and litter from the planting area. Leave small weeds and dead grass, they will enrich the soil when turned under. Spade or till the soil 8-12 inches deep. Loosening the soil will help the plant establish strong roots.

Plants grow best in soil with lots of organic matter. You may optionally add fertilizer or organic material such as compost, leaves, or rotted hay to mix into the soil at this point. For small gardens, scatter 2-3 tablespoons of a low-nitrogen fertilizer evenly and work into the top 2-3 inches of soil for each hill or 2 foot by 2 foot planting area. For larger gardens, scatter 2-3 pounds of a low-nitrogen fertilizer for each 100 square feet of planting area. Work fertilizer or organic material into the soil and leave the surface smooth.

Form rows of soil beds 4-6 inches high and at least 18 inches apart. This formation of ridges will help with drainage.

Planting:

Plant cowpeas in the spring after all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature is at least 65F. For fall crops, direct sow seeds outdoors 12-14 weeks before the first frost. To plant, make holes 1 inch deep and spaced 5 inches apart down the rows of raised beds. Plant 1-2 seeds per hole. If choosing to thin to the strongest plant, determine the strongest and healthiest plant, then remove all other plants, narrowing to a single plant per hole. Cover seeds thinly with soil and water after planting.

Planting Depth:	1 inch
Within-Row Spacing:	5 inches
Between-Row Spacing:	18-24 inches

Care During the Season:

Watering: Cowpeas can withstand heat and dry conditions well compared to other vegetables, but yields can increase with good watering and rainfall. Water the plants deeply, soaking the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches, once a week. If there is no rainfall, water 2-3 times a week. Water especially during flowering and pod formation. Sandy soils may need to be watered more often than heavy clay soils. Mulching around plants can help retain moisture.

Weeding: Keeping plants weed-free improves production. If plowing or hoeing, do not dig deeper than 1 inch to prevent from cutting the feeder roots.

Fertilizing: As the plants begin to flower and set beans, you may optionally apply a fertilizer low in nitrogen to help plants produce more beans. Read and follow fertilizer instructions for best application. Water plants after fertilizing.

Insecticides: Insecticides may be used to protect plants. Bt-based insecticides and sulfur are organic options that can be used for prevention. Sulfur also has fungicidal properties and helps in controlling many diseases. Before using a pesticide, read the label and follow cautions, warnings and directions.

Diseases: If spots or mold appear, treat plants with an approved fungicide. Neem oil, sulfur, and other fungicides may be used. When using fungicides always follow label directions.

Harvesting:

For fresh cowpeas, pick individual pods when the pods are at least 6 inches in length, their seeds fill the pods well, and they are easily snapped like green beans. For dry beans, pull up the whole plant when 90% of the pods have dried off and seeds are hardened. Spread the plant in a safe area to complete the drying of the pods. Leaving the pods to completely dry on the plant may risk field weathering and losing or breaking the seeds. Break completely dried pods down the middle and push out the seeds. Store the seeds in an airtight container until ready to use.