Tom Thumb Popcorn
Zea mays
ZEE-uh mays
Edibles: Fruiting Vegetable
Min. Temp
Very Tender: 38°
The original Tom Thumb popcorn dates to circa the 1860s. This strain is the result of refinements made on the original by Professor Elwyn Meader of the University of New Hamsphire. Dwarf 3½' plants produce 1-2 ears each that measure up to 4 inches long. Good for coastal and short-season areas.
Appearance
Summer Foliage
Green
Fall Foliage
Yellow
Blooming Time
Mid Summer - Late Summer
Habit
Upright
Height
3–4 ft
Spread
6–12 in
Form
Slicer
Characteristics
Type
Heirloom
Safety
Edible Parts
Growth Rate
Fast
Tolerance/Resistance
Heat Tolerant
Attracts
Doesn't Attract Beneficials
Uses/Placement
Culinary
Optimal Growing Conditions
Sun Exposure
Full Sun: 8-12 hrs
Soil Texture
Loamy
Soil Drainage
Well-drained
Soil Moisture
Average
Soil PH
Neutral: 6.5-7.0
PH Tolerance
Prefers slightly acidic soil
Soil Amendment(s)
Compost
Fertilizer
Heavy Feeder
Fertilizer Formula
Rooting & Blooming
Fertilizer Timing
Pre-Fruiting
Micronutrients
Zinc (Zn)
Care
Care Level
Moderate
Behavior and Propagation
Spreading
Moderate Spreader
Propagation Method
Wind Pollinated
Propagation Licensing
Open propagation permitted
Division Timing
Do Not Divide
Fruit and Pollination
Days to Harvest
100 Days
Fruit Size
Small
Fruit Characteristics
Starchy
Ploidy
Diploid