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Love cooking with fresh herbs?
English thyme is a must-have.
It’s easy to grow with the right tactics. Discover 9 proven methods to help your thyme thrive.
Ready to boost your herb garden?
Let’s get started!
Choose the Right Spot
English thyme loves the sun. Pick a spot in your garden that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight each day.
If you live in a hotter climate, some afternoon shade will do wonders. This herb hates soggy roots, so well-draining soil is a must.
If you’re planting in a pot, make sure it has drainage holes.
Prep Your Soil
Thyme thrives in slightly alkaline soil. Before planting, mix in some compost to give it a nutrient boost.
A bit of lime can also help if your soil is too acidic. Test your soil’s pH; you’re aiming for a range between 6.0 and 8.0.
No need to stress; you can find inexpensive pH testing kits at most garden stores.
Plant Your Thyme
Whether you’re starting from seeds, cuttings, or nursery plants, space them about 12 to 24 inches apart. Thyme tends to spread out, so giving them room to grow helps.
If you’re using seeds, lightly press them into the soil but don’t bury them. Thyme seeds need light to germinate.
Water Wisely
Thyme is pretty drought-resistant once it’s established. Water your thyme whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s better to err on the side of underwatering. In containers, thyme might need more frequent watering, especially during hot spells.
Prune for a Bushy Plant
Regular pruning encourages new growth and keeps your thyme looking good. Snip off the top few inches of each stem whenever you need thyme for cooking.
Come late spring or early summer, give it a more intense trim to promote a lush, bushy plant. Avoid cutting into the woody parts, as they might not regrow.
Fertilize Sparingly
Thyme isn’t a heavy feeder. A little compost in the soil at the beginning of the growing season will usually do the trick.
If you feel your thyme needs a bit more, a light application of an organic fertilizer halfway through the season works great. Just don’t overdo it; too much fertilizer can lead to weak, leggy growth.
Protect During Winter
If you live in an area with cold winters, mulch your thyme plant before the first frost. A layer of straw, leaves, or even evergreen boughs can help protect the roots.
In containers, consider moving the plant to a sheltered spot or even indoors. Thyme is hardy, but it can use a little help to get through those frosty nights.
Harvesting Your Thyme
You can pick thyme leaves as soon as your plant is about 6 inches tall. Snip a few inches from the top, but don’t take more than a third of the plant at a time.
Fresh thyme is wonderful, but it also dries well. Hang small bundles upside down in a cool, dry place to dry out for future use.
Watch for Pests
Thyme isn’t usually plagued by pests, but keep an eye out for aphids and spider mites. If you spot them, a simple spray of water can help.
For more severe infestations, try insecticidal soap or neem oil. Companion planting with garlic or onions can also deter pests naturally.