Tom Thumb Pea is a true miniature plant that only grows to 12 inches tall. It does not require staking like other pea varieties. This is one of the best peas for the Southern gardeners to grow in containers and on cold frames because of its compact size and frost hardiness. It can also make a refreshing spring centerpiece for indoor or outdoor tables or a great addition to a child's container garden. Plants set in rich soil and larger areas produce more pea pods than those grown in containers.
Peas should be planted outside in March as soon as the soil is warm because the plants can withstand hard frost down to 20 degrees. They can also be sown indoors and transplanted after the last frost or directly sown in containers during the winter months with adequate lighting. These peas mature in just 50 to 55 days.