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
Why is my thyme dying?
Usually overwatering or poor drainage. Thyme needs excellent drainage and tolerates drought. Never let it sit in wet soil. Cut back woody stems in spring to rejuvenate.
When should I harvest thyme?
Harvest anytime! Best flavor just before flowering. Snip sprigs as needed. For drying, harvest in morning after dew dries but before hot sun.
