Nobody wants to plant a lawn with seed that is full of weeds. According to a 1997 report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the usage of agriculture chemicals to protect crops is still an important tool. However, in general, herbicides are the most widely used tool in vegetable crops. Peas, as an early harvest crop, generally aren't susceptible to molds and fungi that may affect other crops requiring irrigation through the summer. Without such crop protection treatments, a large percentage of the fruit would spoil before it ever reached the consumer.
Most farmers track pests with records and many map their fields for weed and pest problems.
More farmers are trying alternative measures as well. Each farmer is faced with an ever-changing set of variables in growing his crops. Growers consult with county extension agents and university specialists, crop protection consultants, and rely on years of experience and that of other growers to assess options and make decisions about pest management. More options are becoming available, but chemical tools remain important. Farmers face a daunting challenge to bring food to the table of consumers.