Thyme - Vulgaris

Thyme - Vulgaris

Growing Tips:Thyme

Quick Reference:

Plant seed 1/8 inch deep spaced 1 to 2 inches apart. Germination: 18 to 24 days. Plant spacing in the garden, 12  inches. Soil surface must not dry out during the germination period.

When and where to plant:

Grown as a perennial only in the warmer regions of Alaska. In colder regions, it should be grown as an annual or container plant only. In warm areas, direct sow seed in the garden as soon as the danger of frost is past, in an area that provides full sun. Otherwise, start seed indoors 6-8 weeks before transplanting. Thyme is very tolerant of poor soil and drought, but needs well drained soil. Plant Thyme in your herb garden, in a rock garden, or in containers. It also makes a pretty patch of ground cover.

Care:

Keep weed free. Pinch lead shoot to encourage side branching. It is best to cut back hard after flowering or plant may become to depleted.

Harvest:

To use fresh Thyme, pick stem tips with tender leaves. Cut longer, more mature stems for drying. This should be done just before it begins to flower. Tie together in bunches and hang upside down to dry in a dry, cool, airy place. Dried leaves may be stored in glass jars. Thyme can also be stored in the freezer.