Common Thyme
Thymus vulgaris
Family: Lamiaceae
Common thyme is a small, woody perennial with tiny aromatic leaves. Its earthy, slightly minty flavor is essential in French and Mediterranean cooking.
Days to Harvest
80-95 days
Sun Needs
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
low
Germination Temp
70°F optimal
Start Indoors
8 weeks before last frost
Germination
14-21 days
Seed Depth
Surface sow
Light to Germinate
Yes
đź’ˇ Tip: Seeds are tiny. Press into surface. Cuttings are easier.
Soil Type
Well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
pH Range
6 - 8
Spacing
12-18 inches between plants
⚠️ Avoid planting near:
History
Ancient Egyptians used thyme in embalming. Greeks burned it as incense, believing it brought courage. Romans spread it throughout Europe.
Nutritional Benefits
- âś“Contains thymol (antimicrobial)
- âś“Antioxidant properties
- âś“Traditional cough remedy
Optimal Growing Temp
60°F - 75°F
Thyme thrives in warm, sunny conditions. Mediterranean native that loves heat and tolerates cold.
Survival Range
20°F - 90°F
Can survive these temperatures
Frost Note: Very hardy to zone 4-5. Semi-evergreen to evergreen depending on climate. Handles cold well.
Best USDA Zones
Humidity
30-50%
Prefers low humidity. Excellent drainage essential. Can suffer in humid climates.
Height
6-12 inches
Spread
12-18 inches
Growth Habit
spreading
Germination
14-28 days
Tiny, slow-growing seedlings. Seeds need light to germinate—do not cover.
Seedling Stage
Duration: 6-8 weeks
True leaves: Tiny leaves with distinctive thyme scent.
Transplant ready: When 3-4 inches tall (10-12 weeks). Cuttings faster than seed.
Vegetative Growth
Duration: Continuous
Forms low, spreading mats of aromatic foliage. Harvest sprigs anytime. Prune to maintain compact shape.
Flowering
Timing: Late spring to summer
Duration: 3-4 weeks
Small pink-purple flowers very attractive to bees.
Harvest Maturity
Timing: 90+ days from seed, faster from cuttings
- Dense, mat-forming growth
- Woody stems developing
- Strong thyme aroma
Per Plant
1-2 cups fresh sprigs per plant over the season.
Per Square Foot
2-4 plants per square foot
Harvest Frequency
Harvest sprigs as needed year-round. Cut up to 1/3 at once.
Factors Affecting Yield
- •Full sun essential
- •Lean, well-draining soil
- •Regular light pruning
Seedling Stage
Keep lightly moist, not wet.
Established Plants
Water when completely dry. Every 7-10 days. Very drought tolerant.
During Fruiting
Reduce water during flowering.
Preferred Method
Water deeply but infrequently. Excellent drainage critical.
Pro Tips
- Drought tolerant—when in doubt, don't water
- Overwatering is #1 killer
Feeding Schedule
Established
Light compost
Once in spring (optional)
Organic Options
Minimal to no feeding. Lean soil produces best flavor.
Minimum Size
6 inch pot
Recommended Size
8-12 inch pot
Depth Required
At least 6-8 inches
Best Varieties for Containers
Container Tips
- Excellent in containers and window boxes
- Very well-draining soil essential
- Allow to dry between waterings
- Terra cotta helps prevent overwatering
