Grow Guide to Thyme
Thymus vulgaris
Thyme
Plant Description
A resilient herb with small, delicate leaves that range from green to silvery-grey.
Thyme is known for its strong, earthy flavor with subtle minty and lemon undertones. It thrives in a variety of culinary contexts, from Mediterranean to French cuisine, imparting a distinctive aromatic essence that enhances meats, soups, and sauces.
Quick Facts
Full Sun
14-28 Days
75-90 Days
12-24"
2-3
Perennial
1/4"
~70%
Best Planting Locations
All locations require 6 hours of sunlight
Perfect for small herbs, easy access and plenty
of light.
Well-drained soil and ample sunlight are ideal.
Suitable for container gardening; provides adequate sunlight and airflow.
Controls soil quality and moisture; easy to manage and move.
Getting Started
Thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 hours of direct light each day. Choose a well-exposed spot in the garden or a sunny windowsill if planting indoors.
Prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
Mix in some gravel or sand to improve drainage if needed. A light application of organic fertilizer at planting can encourage strong growth.
Plant 2-3 seeds in each hole about 1/4" deep in the soil. Space plants or seedlings approximately 12 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Strawberry: Plant between your strawberry rows to provide ground cover & keep soil moist
Cabbage: Thyme repels insects that harm cabbage and lures ladybugs which help cabbage
Rose: Thyme keeps roses safe from blackflies and aphids
Tomato: Thyme repels tomato hornworm and whiteflies, and also enhances tomato's flavor
Basil, Cilantro & Mint: Different soil moisture level requirements, and might compete for the same nutrients in the soil
Cucumbers & Peppers: Different soil moisture need, and thyme may negatively impact their flavor
Honeybees: Attracted by thyme's strong aroma
Hoverflies: Attracted by thyme's strong aroma
Aphids: Because it attracts Lacewings, it reduces aphids through predation.
Cabbage worm: Repelled by thyme's strong aroma
Best Time to Plant
USDA Hardiness Zones
Day to Day Maintenance
Drought-tolerant once established but needs regular watering during the initial growth phase. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Over-watering can lead to root rot.
Prune in early spring to encourage new growth and maintain a compact form. Regularly trimming the tips can also help promote a bushier plant. Avoid cutting into the woody part of the plant, as it may not regrow.
The Harvest
Gathering
Harvest sprigs as needed by snipping off the top five to six inches of growth. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and can prevent the plant from becoming woody.
For the most potent aroma and flavor, harvest just before the plant flowers, typically in the morning when the essential oils are most concentrated.
Favorite Uses
How to Store
Duration: Several months
Location: Store in the freezer
Method: Place whole sprigs in freezer bags or freeze chopped thyme in ice cube trays with olive oil.
Duration: Several months
Location: Refrigerator
Method: Submerge the cleaned and dried sprigs in olive oil in a sealed container; store in the refrigerator.
Duration: Several Months
Location: Cool, dry place
Method: Layer sprigs of thyme with salt in an airtight container. The salt will draw out moisture and preserve the herb.
Duration: One year
Location: Warm, dry, and well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight
Method: Hang bunches upside down or spread them on a rack in a dry, shaded area.
Fun Facts
Bee's Favorite
Thyme flowers are a significant source of nectar for honeybees, producing a unique flavored honey that is highly prized in some regions.
Ancient Embalming
Thyme was used by the Egyptians in their embalming practices due to its strong preservative and aromatic properties.
