Thyme
perennial-season crop
At a glance
| Suitable zone groups | Perennial in zones 5-6, 7-8 and 9-10; in zones 3-4, grow in containers or as an annual |
|---|---|
| Planting window | See the guide text below, in general terms relative to your last spring frost |
| Sun | Full sun |
| Soil | Well-draining, even sandy soil |
| Watering | Moderate watering, let soil dry between waterings |
About this plant
Thyme offers small, aromatic leaves on a compact plant. It is perennial in zones 5-6, 7-8 and 9-10; in zones 3-4, grow it in containers or as an annual. Give it full sun.
Well-draining, even sandy soil suits thyme. Water moderately and let the soil dry between waterings, rather than keeping the root area constantly moist.
Common beginner failures and fixes
- The plant declines in constantly damp soil: Let soil dry between waterings and improve drainage.
- Growth becomes loose and stretched: Move the plant to full sun.
- Hard pruning leaves bare branches: Snip leafy tips and avoid cutting deeply into leafless wood.
- Plants fail outdoors in colder zones: In zones 3-4, grow in containers that can be sheltered or treat thyme as an annual.
Beginner checklist
- Match perennial, container or annual growing to your zone group.
- Choose full sun.
- Prepare well-draining soil, even if sandy.
- Water moderately and let soil dry between waterings.
- Harvest leafy tips without cutting into bare wood.
Zone groups and planting windows here are general guidance. Confirm your own zone and last frost date locally before planting.