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Guaranteed to Grow
Neonicotinoid-Free
Heirloom

Tom Thumb (Half-Pint) Dwarf Shelling Pea

Quick Facts:

  • Heirloom variety ca.1850
  • Dwarf plants grow just 8" tall
  • Pods 2-3", containing 3-4 peas each
  • Suitable for containers
  • 50 days to harvest

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Quantity: Packet (25 Seeds)

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We ship to all areas of North America including the United States, its territories and outlying islands, and Canada. International orders may incur an additional charge to cover the handling of customs paperwork. Returns are accepted within 30 days of receipt. Full warranty information can be found here.

Tom Thumb (Half-Pint) Dwarf Shelling Pea

More about Tom Thumb

Pisum sativum

Also known as Half Pint, Tom Thumb is an heirloom pea first introduced in the 1850's.  Adorable plants reach just 8 inches in height while producing 2 to 3-inch pods, each containing up to four sweet peas.  A fun gardening project for young kids as the plants are small enough for several plants to be grown in a medium pot.  Approximately 50 days to harvest.  Each packet contains a minimum of 25 seeds.

Pisum sativum

Also known as Half Pint, Tom Thumb is an heirloom pea first introduced in the 1850's.  Adorable plants reach just 8 inches in height while producing 2 to 3-inch pods, each containing up to four sweet peas.  A fun gardening project for young kids as the plants are small enough for several plants to be grown in a medium pot.  Approximately 50 days to harvest.  Each packet contains a minimum of 25 seeds.

Girl holding kohlrabi

How to Grow Peas

Garden peas prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. They require full sun exposure for optimal growth, but can also tolerate partial shade. Peas are a cool-season crop, so they grow best in temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F. In hotter climates, peas can be planted in the fall for a winter harvest. Peas also require regular watering, especially during flowering and pod development, to ensure good yields.

As soon as soil can be worked, plant seeds 2" apart, 1" deep in rows 18" apart.  Keep moist until germination has occurred (7-10 days). Provide support such as string or fencing for vining types. Dwarf peas do not require trellising, though providing some support will keep plants healthier and make for easier picking.

Not recommended

Insect Pests

Aphids are the most common pest that affects peas. They can be controlled by spraying with a simple homemade or purchased insecticidal soap. Beneficial insects like ladybugs can also be introduced to control aphid populations.

Diseases & Other Problems

The most common diseases to affect peas are powdery mildew and fusarium wilt. They can be prevented by keeping peas upright to allow for ample circulation. Always water in the morning and avoid over-watering which can spread disease.

Shelling peas are typically ready for harvest 60-70 days after planting, when the pods are plump and the peas inside have reached full size. Snow peas are harvested when the pods have reached a sufficient size but before seeds have filled out. To harvest pods, gently pull or cut the pods from the plant. To extend the shelf life, store freshly harvested peas in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Alternatively, peas can be blanched and frozen for longer-term storage. To blanch, boil the peas for 2-3 minutes, then quickly cool them in an ice water bath before packing into airtight containers and freezing. Properly stored frozen peas can last for up to 8 months.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Peas are inbreeding plants with perfect flowers that usually complete pollination before opening. It is therefore not necessary to isolate varieties, except to prevent accidental mixing of seed which may occur when two varieties are allowed to intertwine.

HARVESTING SEED:

To save pea seeds allow the pods to dry on the vine. Pull the entire plant and lay flat in the shade for a few days to allow the seeds dry completely, then remove pods and shell out mature peas. Allow seeds to dry for one week before storing in an airtight container.

SEED LONGETIVITY:

Pea seeds will retain 50% viability for 3 years when stored under ideal conditions.

Childs hand planting a seed

Customer Reviews

Based on 3 reviews
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C
C. E. SMITH
Excellent for small spaces!

I have 2 - 2’ x 6’ raised beds which are waist high, as bend-over gardening has become challenging. These seemed like a good choice, and I’ve not been disappointed! Bonus- their short germination time means I am looking at a second harvest in a couple of weeks! These little guys are good BOTH as snap peas early on in salads and stir-fry, as well as fresh shelled peas a little later on.

J
Jacqueline Patt
Need more time

I only planted 6 of the seeds and only 3 have showed their little heads above ground so far. I think the others will appear soon. Maybe I planted them to deep.

L
Linda Glenn
100% germination!

These little peas6all came up and are doing well. I can't wait for them to be ready to harvest! I planted them for my grandchildren to pick. They love coming out and pulling carrots and I know they will love these also.

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