How to grow Thyme

At a glance

🌱 Grow your Thyme with GardenDex

• Reminders to water it, timed to your weather and whether it's in a pot
• Frost and disease alerts for your garden, the night before
• Follow it from seed to harvest, and see what your garden grew in $
• Point your camera at any plant or bug to identify it

🗓️ When to plant

Plant seedlings or divisions in mid-spring after the last frost, or in early autumn in mild climates. In containers, you can start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.

🌰 How to plant

1. Choose a sunny, well-draining spot with poor to moderate soil.
2. Loosen soil and mix in sand or gravel if it's clay-heavy.
3. Plant seedlings or rooted cuttings at the same depth they were growing.
4. Water gently and allow soil to dry between waterings.

💧 Care

• Pinch back stem tips regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess.
• Avoid feeding; thyme thrives in poor soil and over-fertilizing reduces flavor.
• Prune lightly after flowering (late summer) to maintain shape and vigor.
• In cold climates, mulch lightly in autumn to protect roots through winter.

🧺 Harvest

Pinch or snip leaves and tender stems anytime during the growing season, especially before flowering for best flavor. Harvest regularly to encourage bushier growth and prolong the plant's productive life.

🐛 Common problems

Root rot (from overwatering): Improve drainage immediately, reduce watering frequency, and remove any blackened stems.

Powdery mildew: Increase air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove affected leaves.

Spider mites (in hot, dry climates): Spray foliage with water or neem oil, and ensure consistent humidity.

🤝 Companion plants

💚 Good neighbours: Rosemary, Lavender, Oregano, Cabbage family

⚠️ Keep apart from: Mint (aggressive spreader), Basil (different watering needs)

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