Thyme

Planting thyme

Start indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost, or plant divisions and cuttings in spring. Seed germinates slowly and unevenly, so transplants are the faster route.

Planting details

• Spacing: 12 to 18 inches
• Give it the sharpest drainage in the garden
• Seed depth: about 1/8 inch, barely covered

Growing requirements

Thyme needs full sun and lean, fast-draining soil. Rich soil and frequent watering produce soft growth with weaker flavor and more stem rot.

Harvesting and care

Shear plants lightly after flowering to keep them dense, and snip sprigs any time of year. Replace or divide plants when the centers turn woody and thin, usually after a few seasons.

Common mistakes

• Watering on a schedule for a plant that prefers to dry out
• Piling mulch against the crown, which traps moisture and rots stems
• Cutting into bare woody stems, which do not resprout

Companion plants

Thyme grows happily beside lavender, rosemary, cabbage, and strawberries, anywhere drainage is good and watering stays light.