Determine the precise amount of seed required per acre based on target plant population and seed weight.
Recommended Seeding Rate
0 lb/acre
(0 kg/ha)
How to Calculate Pea Seeding Rates
Calculating the correct seeding rate for field peas is critical for maximizing yield and ensuring effective weed competition. Unlike smaller grains, pea seed sizes (Thousand Kernel Weight or TKW) vary significantly between varieties and even different lots of the same variety.
The standard formula used by agronomists to determine the seeding rate is:
Seeding Rate (lb/acre) = (Target Population/sq ft × TKW in grams) ÷ (Germination % × Survival % × 10)
Understanding the Variables
Target Population: For field peas, the recommended target is usually 7 to 9 plants per square foot (approx. 75-90 plants per square meter).
TKW (Thousand Kernel Weight): This is the weight in grams of 1,000 seeds. Pea seeds can range from 150g (small yellows) to over 350g (large greens). You can usually find this on your seed tag.
Germination Rate: The percentage of seeds expected to sprout under ideal conditions, provided by the seed lab.
Expected Survival: This accounts for "seedling mortality" due to mechanical damage during seeding, soil-borne diseases, or deep planting. Typically, farmers assume 85% to 95% survival.
Common Pea TKW References
Pea Type
Average TKW Range (Grams)
Small Yellow Peas
170 – 210g
Medium Yellow/Green Peas
210 – 260g
Large Green Peas
280 – 360g
Maple/Austrian Winter Peas
140 – 200g
Example Calculation
If your target is 8 plants/sq ft, your TKW is 250g, germination is 95%, and you expect 90% survival: