Sow peas now for an early harvest, but beware mice, slugs and birds

Some varieties of garden pea can be sown in autumn — if you’re patient enough to nurse seedlings through winter

'Douce provence' variety of peas: these can be sown at this time of year and be ready for eating in early spring

I’m a big fan of a crop that can be overwintered. The soil appreciates it when it’s not left bare, and growers benefit from a harvest arriving far sooner than from plants we sow in spring.

Much like their relative, the sweet pea, certain varieties of garden pea can be sown now. Assuming they establish before winter truly sets in, they will — all being well — be ready to get growing, flowering and fruiting as soon as winter gives way to spring.