How to Grow Thyme

Thyme has grown across Mediterranean hillsides and kitchen gardens for centuries, prized for its tiny fragrant leaves and warm, earthy flavor. It holds up especially well in slow cooking, bringing depth to soups, beans, roasted vegetables, breads, meats, sauces, and everyday herb blends.

In the garden, thyme forms a low woody perennial that fits neatly along paths, between stones, in containers, herb beds, and sunny borders. Its small flowers draw bees and beneficial insects, while the foliage offers a useful harvest through much of the year where winters are mild.

Growing Guide

Start thyme indoors about 8–10 weeks before the expected last spring frost, or direct sow outdoors after the soil has warmed. Thyme grows slowly from seed, so indoor starting gives seedlings more time to develop before transplanting.

Set well-rooted plants outdoors after severe frost has passed. In mild climates, thyme may also be planted in early fall, allowing roots to establish before winter. Established plants are perennial where drainage and cold conditions suit them.

Thyme seed is very small. Sow it on the surface of moist seed-starting mix and cover only lightly, if at all. Keep the surface evenly moist until germination, which may take two to four weeks.

Provide strong light and good airflow once seedlings emerge. Transplant carefully after hardening, spacing plants about 8–12 inches apart depending on the variety and growth habit.

Thyme also grows well in containers, especially where the potting mix drains freely and plants receive plenty of sun.

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