How to grow black eyed peas from dried beans?

Growing black-eyed peas from dried beans from the grocery store is absolutely possible! I do this every year:

Select organic dried beans if possible - conventional ones may be treated to prevent sprouting. Soak beans overnight in water until plump. Plant 1 inch deep in warm soil after danger of frost has passed.

Space seeds 4-6 inches apart in rows 2-3 feet apart. They need full sun and well-draining soil. Water consistently, especially when flowers and pods are forming. They're quite drought tolerant once established.

Harvest for fresh shelling when pods are plump but still green, or allow to dry on plants for storage. You'll get plants true to type since black-eyed peas are generally open-pollinated.

The best part: you can save seeds from your harvest for next year! Much cheaper than buying seeds each season.

Seed Savers seed starting guide has specific spacing and care advice!