How to Grow and Care for Thyme

Thyme is a versatile, hardy perennial herb known for its fragrant leaves and woody stems. With over 50 varieties, including Lemon and Caraway thyme, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. While growing from seeds can be challenging, thyme is generally easy to care for, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Different Methods to Grow Thyme

Planting Cuttings

Clip a 3-inch cutting from the tip of a stem, apply rooting hormone, and plant it in sterile sand or vermiculite. Roots will emerge in about 6 weeks.

• Pros: Reliable, quicker root establishment, can propagate from existing plants.
• Cons: Requires access to a mature plant for cuttings.

Growing from Seeds

Sow thyme seeds on the surface of a sterilized seed starter mix in a tray, place it in a bright location at about 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Seeds can remain on the surface of the soil or just barely covered with soil. Once the seedlings sprout (it takes 14 to 28 days), they can be carefully transplanted into their final pots.

• Pros: Cost-effective, can grow a large number of plants.
• Cons: Slow to germinate, requires careful attention during the early stages.

Using Young Plants from Garden Centers

Purchase young thyme plants from a nursery and plant them in a suitable container with well-draining soil. This method is easier and more reliable than growing from seeds.

• Pros: Immediate results, less initial care required.
• Cons: More expensive than seeds, limited variety.

Ideal Soil and Location Requirements

Thyme thrives in sandy, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. It prefers full sun and can be planted in containers, rock gardens, or alongside other drought-tolerant perennials. Minimal soil amendments are needed, making it low-maintenance.

When to Plant Thyme

Thyme is best planted in early spring, either indoors 6 to 10 weeks before the last frost or outdoors 2 to 3 weeks before the last frost. Ensure the ground temperature is at least 70°F for optimal growth. This timing allows thyme to establish well before the growing season.

Growing Thyme Outdoors

For growing thyme outdoors in a garden, using young plants from a garden center or planting cuttings is the best method. This approach ensures a higher success rate and quicker establishment compared to growing from seeds, which can be slow and uneven in germination.

1. Choose a sunny location. Thyme thrives in full sun, so pick a spot that gets at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily.
2. Ensure well-draining soil. Thyme does not like "wet feet." Sandy or gritty soil is ideal to prevent waterlogging.
3. Prepare the soil. In early spring, optionally mix in some organic compost to enrich the soil.
4. Obtain young plants or cuttings. Purchase young thyme plants from a garden center or take 3-inch cuttings from an existing plant.
5. Plant indoors if needed. For a head start, plant cuttings indoors 6 to 10 weeks before the last spring frost.
6. Plant outdoors when the ground is warm. Transplant young plants or cuttings outdoors when the ground temperature reaches 70°F, typically 2 to 3 weeks before the last spring frost.
7. Space the plants. Space young plants 12 to 24 inches apart, depending on the variety, to allow for proper growth.
8. Water deeply. Water the plants deeply only when the soil is completely dry to avoid overwatering.
9. Prune regularly. Prune the plants in spring and summer to encourage bushier growth and prevent them from becoming too woody.
10. Mulch lightly in winter. If you live in a region with cold winters, mulch lightly around the plants after the ground freezes to protect them.
11. Divide or replace old plants. Every 3 to 4 years, divide or replace plants as they become woody and less flavorful.

Growing Thyme Indoors

Thyme can be successfully grown indoors with the right care and attention. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you grow thyme indoors.

1. Choose a sunny spot. Place your thyme plant near a window that gets at least eight hours of full sunlight daily. If natural light is insufficient, use fluorescent grow lights.
2. Use well-draining soil. Opt for a sandy, well-draining soil mixture. You can mix regular potting soil with sand or gravel to improve drainage.
3. Select a suitable container. Use a small container with good drainage holes. A pot as small as four inches in diameter can work well.
4. Maintain proper temperature. Keep the indoor temperature between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing the plant in drafty areas or near heating vents.
5. Water sparingly. Water the thyme only when the soil is completely dry. Saturate the soil and then let it dry out completely before watering again.
6. Avoid fertilizing. Thyme prefers nutrient-poor soil. If necessary, use a diluted organic fertilizer early in the growing season.
7. Prune regularly. Harvest stems as needed and trim back the plant to promote new growth. This helps keep the plant bushy and prevents it from becoming too woody.
8. Repot when needed. When the plant becomes woody, repot it by separating and replanting smaller pieces in fresh soil.

Thyme is not only a culinary delight but also a pollinator-friendly plant. It attracts bees, making it an excellent addition to any garden aiming to support local pollinators. This characteristic enhances biodiversity and helps in the pollination of other plants in your garden.

Caring for Thyme

1. Watering: Water thyme deeply only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's crucial to let the soil dry out between waterings.
2. Pruning: Regularly prune thyme in the spring and summer to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming too woody. This also helps maintain its flavor and aroma.
3. Pest Management: Thyme can be affected by pests like gray mold, whiteflies, and mealybugs. For gray mold, remove infected stems or discard the plant. For whiteflies and mealybugs, use neem oil, following the label instructions carefully.
4. Harvesting: Harvest thyme just before it flowers by cutting off the top 5 to 6 inches of growth. This is when the essential oils are most concentrated. Harvest in the morning after the dew has dried to preserve the oils.
5. Fertilizing: Thyme prefers nutrient-poor soil, so minimal fertilization is needed. If desired, use a diluted organic fertilizer early in the growing season, but avoid over-fertilizing as it can be detrimental to the plant.

Common Challenges With Thyme

Thyme is a resilient and easy-to-grow herb, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced gardeners. It thrives in well-drained, sandy soils and requires minimal watering, making it drought-tolerant. Whether grown in the ground or in containers, thyme adapts well to various conditions, including full sun and part sun. Its low maintenance needs and ability to propagate easily from cuttings add to its appeal.

However, growing thyme does come with its challenges. One common issue is its susceptibility to root rot if planted in poorly drained soil. Additionally, older thyme plants tend to become woody and less flavorful, necessitating regular pruning or replacement every few years. Pests like whiteflies and mealybugs can also pose problems, along with diseases such as gray mold. Despite these challenges, with proper care, thyme can be a rewarding addition to any garden.

Safety of Thyme for Pets

Thyme is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets, making it a safe addition to your garden or home. However, if you suspect your pet has ingested a harmful substance, contact the ASPCA 24-hour hotline immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can thyme be grown indoors year-round?

Yes, thyme can be grown indoors year-round if it receives adequate sunlight. Place it near a window that gets at least eight hours of full sunlight daily or use fluorescent grow lights to supplement natural light.

What type of soil is best for growing thyme?

Thyme thrives in well-draining, sandy soil. You can mix regular potting soil with sand or gravel to improve drainage. Avoid using heavy, clay-based soils that retain moisture, as thyme prefers dry conditions.

How often should I water my thyme plant?

Water thyme deeply only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's crucial to let the soil dry out between waterings. Thyme is drought-tolerant and prefers to be under-watered rather than over-watered.

Why is my thyme not growing well under LED lights?

Thyme requires full sunlight for optimal growth. If using LED lights, ensure they provide sufficient intensity and spectrum. Position the lights close to the plant and run them for at least 12-14 hours daily to mimic natural sunlight conditions.