Thyme

Thymus vulgaris · Herb

A low, woody Mediterranean herb with tiny fragrant leaves. It thrives on sun, poor soil and neglect, and suffers mainly from too much water. A few plants give enough for the kitchen all year.

Thyme — Photo: Henry Brisse, CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

💧WaterOnly when soil is dry, about every 10 days (estimated)

☀️LightFull sun, 6+ hours

🐾PetsNot toxic

Care at a glance

Light: Full sun, at least 6 hours
Water: Sparingly; let soil dry out between waterings
Soil: Lean, sandy or gritty, very well-drained, pH 6.0–8.0
Temperature: Best 60–80 °F; most types hardy to about -10 °F
Spacing: 12 in apart
Container: At least 1 gallon, 6 in deep; terracotta is ideal
Harvest: Snip leaves about 2–3 months after planting (estimated)
Lifespan: Perennial; replace after 3–4 years as it gets woody

When?

Plant young plants outside in spring after the last frost, or in early autumn in mild areas. Seeds can be started indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost (estimated).

Step by step

Pick the sunniest, best-drained spot you have.
Mix grit or sand into heavy soil, or grow in a raised bed or pot.
Plant at the same depth as in the nursery pot.
Water to settle, then only when the soil is dry.
Do not fertilize much; lean soil gives stronger flavor.
Trim lightly after flowering to keep plants compact.
Avoid cutting into old, bare wood; it rarely regrows.
Take new cuttings every few years to replace woody plants.

Common problems

Rotting at the baseToo much water or heavy soil; improve drainage and water less.

Sparse, leggy growthNot enough sun or no trimming; move to sun and shear after flowering.

Woody center with few leavesOld plant; replace with a rooted cutting.

Pets

Garden thyme is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs. If in doubt, ask your vet.

Similar plants

Rosemary Sage Oregano

Sources

ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants

This page is general guidance; no pesticide doses are given.