Southern Pea Bush Texas Cream 8 is a high-yielding, heat-tolerant legume recognized for its dark green foliage and uniquely curved, constricted pods measuring approximately 5 inches in length. This bush-type variety produces abundant white flowers that attract beneficial insects and support natural pest control. Its growth habit effectively suppresses weeds and contributes to soil health through nitrogen fixation, making it a valuable companion in crop rotation. Particularly suited for fall planting and animal fodder, Texas Cream 8 thrives in hot, challenging environments and offers both nutritional and ecological benefits that underline the enduring legacy of Southern Peas. Cowpeas grow well on poor land and add lots of organic matter to the soil — an excellent nitrogen source ahead of fall-planted crops.

Germination Rate: 93%. Test Date: 12/25. CTS.

Why Choose Southern Pea Bush Texas Cream 8?

• Heirloom Seed: Passed down through generations for at least 75 years for reliable harvests and authentic flavor.
• Non-GMO Seeds: Plants whose DNA structure has not been altered in ways that do not occur naturally through traditional breeding methods.
• Exceptional Heat Tolerance: Thrives in hot Southern summers where other legumes struggle to produce.
• Nitrogen Fixer: Naturally enriches soil with nitrogen — an excellent cover crop and green manure ahead of fall plantings.
• Weed Suppression: Dense bush habit shades out weeds and reduces maintenance throughout the season.
• Pollinator Friendly: White blossoms attract beneficial insects and support garden biodiversity.
• Dual Purpose: Excellent for fresh eating, drying, and animal fodder — a truly versatile Southern staple.

Planting Tips for Success

• When to Plant: Direct sow outdoors after the last frost when soil temps reach 65°F or higher. In Texas and the South, plant from April through July for summer and fall harvests.
• Sunlight: Full sun — at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Soil: Well-draining soil with a pH of 5.8–7.0. Southern peas fix their own nitrogen — avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen.
• Planting Depth: Sow seeds 1 inch deep.
• Spacing: Space seeds 3–4 inches apart in rows 24–36 inches apart. Thin to 6 inches after germination.
• Watering: Water at planting and during dry spells. Established plants are drought tolerant — avoid overwatering once established.
• Support: Bush habit requires no staking.
• Fertilizing: Inoculate seeds with cowpea rhizobium inoculant for best nitrogen fixation. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
• Days to Maturity: Approximately 65–75 days from direct sow.
• Harvest: Pick pods when cream-colored and firm but before they dry on the vine. Shell immediately or refrigerate for up to a week.

Why Choose David's Garden Seeds®?

• Veteran-Owned: Supplying premium seeds since 2009.
• GO TEXAN Certified: Supporting local agriculture and communities.
• Integrity Pledge: David's Garden Seeds has taken the Seed Integrity Pledge.
• Great Customer Service: David answers all customer service questions. Usually within a few minutes.
• Vegetable Seed License: David's Garden Seeds has been granted a Vegetable Seed License for the State of Texas.

Cooking Methods

• Southern Boiled Peas: Simmer shelled peas with smoked ham hock, onion, and seasoning for a classic Southern side dish.
• Hoppin' John: Combine with rice, onion, and bacon for the traditional New Year's Day dish of the American South.
• Cowpea Salad: Toss cooked and cooled peas with fresh vegetables, vinaigrette, and herbs for a hearty summer salad.
• Fried Peas: Pan-fry cooked peas in butter or bacon drippings for a crispy, savory side.
• Dried & Stored: Allow pods to fully dry on the vine, shell, and store for winter soups and stews.

Order Texas Cream 8 Southern Pea Seeds Today

Order yours today and grow your own fresh Southern peas in your spring and fall gardens.

Nutritional Information

Per ½ cup cooked Southern peas/cowpeas (approx. 83g):

• Calories: 100
• Total Fat: 0.5g (1% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 3mg (0% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g (7% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 6g (21% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Iron: 2.2mg (12% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 356mg (8% Daily Value)
• Folate: 105mcg (26% Daily Value)

Important Disclosures

• Variety Disclaimer: Seed variety, packet size, and count are as described. Results may vary depending on growing conditions, climate, soil quality, and gardening practices.
• Seed Storage: Store seeds in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Properly stored seeds maintain best viability for 2–3 years.
• Planting Zones: Suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 5–11 as a warm-season annual. Best results in Zones 7–11. Thrives in hot Southern summers — ideal for Texas, Gulf Coast, and Southeast growing regions.

Grow something beautiful. Grow something delicious. Grow with David's Garden Seeds®.