Half Pint (Tom Thumb) Dwarf Shelling Pea Seeds

Little Pea Plants for Pots and Small Gardens

Half Pint, also known as Tom Thumb, is an heirloom dwarf shelling pea that brings a homegrown harvest to small spaces. Its compact plants are suited to flower pots, window boxes, and garden beds. Pick plump pods, shell the peas, and enjoy a fresh addition to your cool-season meals.

Variety details

• Variety: Half Pint / Tom Thumb
• Botanical name: Pisum sativum
• Type: Dwarf shelling pea
• Growth habit: Compact plants, generally under 12 inches tall; size varies with conditions
• Harvest timing: Approximately 50–55 days, depending on growing conditions
• Best uses: Containers, window boxes, and small garden beds
• Product supplied: Seeds for planting

Planting your seeds

Direct sow in early spring when the soil can be worked and conditions are cool. A fall crop is also possible where your climate provides enough cool growing time. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Sow approximately 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart.

Container growing and care

Use containers with drainage holes and enough root space to maintain even moisture. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged, particularly during germination and flowering. These dwarf plants do not need the tall trellis used for climbing pea varieties. Protect young plants during severe weather and avoid expecting a prolonged harvest in summer heat.

Harvesting shelling peas

Harvest when pods are filled and the peas are plump, before they become overmature. Pick gently to avoid damaging the plant. Unlike snow peas, this variety is grown for the peas inside: open the pods, remove the peas, and discard the shells.

From garden to kitchen

Wash and shell your harvest, then steam briefly, add to soups, or stir into pasta and rice dishes. Frequent checking helps you harvest peas while they are tender.

Available quantities

Choose from 10 seeds, 25 seeds, 1 ounce, 1/4 pound, or 1 pound. Weight-based packets are sold by weight rather than a guaranteed seed count.