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Thyme

Thymus vulgaris

HerbsPerennialFrost Hardy

Low-growing, woody herb ideal for borders and containers. Prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soil and full sun.

Overview

SunFull Sun
WaterLowCalculate watering amount
Height10–30 cm
Spread35 cm
Spacing30 cm
Row Spacing30 cm
Germination14–21 days
To Harvest70–90 days

Companion Planting

Bad Companions

None

Toxicity

SeverityNon-toxic

Non-toxic to humans, dogs, and cats according to the ASPCA; however, concentrated thyme essential oil can cause irritation and should not be ingested undiluted.

Planting Tips

LocationFull sun with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily; excellent drainage and good air circulation are essential.
SoilLean, sandy or rocky, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5-7.5); avoid rich, heavy, or waterlogged soils.
Sowing Depth0.1 cm
Planting Depth3 cm
WateringWater deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings; established plants need water only every 2-4 weeks.

1 cm of water per m² equals 10 liters. Use the Watering Calculator for exact amounts.

FertilizingRequires little to no fertilizer; a small amount of compost worked into the soil at planting time is sufficient for the season.

Care Tip: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and prevent woodiness; use thin mulch to suppress weeds but avoid trapping moisture near the crown.

Common Pests

Aphids

Symptoms: Clusters of small green or black insects on stems and leaf undersides; curled, yellowing leaves and sticky honeydew residue.

Treatment: Spray with a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap; neem oil can be used for heavier infestations.

Prevention: Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings; avoid over-fertilizing, which promotes tender growth aphids prefer.

Spider Mites

Symptoms: Fine webbing on leaf undersides, stippled or bronzed foliage, and overall plant wilting in hot, dry conditions.

Treatment: Rinse foliage with water regularly; apply miticidal soap or neem oil if populations persist.

Prevention: Maintain adequate humidity around plants and keep them well-watered during heat waves; avoid dusty conditions.

Thrips

Symptoms: Silver streaks or discolored patches on leaves caused by piercing and feeding on plant tissue.

Treatment: Apply insecticidal soap or spinosad-based sprays; remove and destroy heavily infested foliage.

Prevention: Use reflective mulch to deter thrips; remove plant debris and weeds that can harbor populations.

Common Diseases

Root Rot (Rhizoctonia)

Symptoms: Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and soft or darkened roots; plant collapses despite adequate watering.

Treatment: Remove and destroy affected plants; improve drainage and reduce watering immediately for remaining plants.

Prevention: Plant in well-drained soil, avoid overwatering, and ensure containers have adequate drainage holes.

Gray Mold (Botrytis cinerea)

Symptoms: Fuzzy gray-brown fungal growth on leaves, stems, and flowers, especially in cool, humid conditions.

Treatment: Remove infected plant parts promptly; apply a copper-based fungicide if the infection spreads.

Prevention: Ensure good air circulation by proper spacing; water at the base of plants and avoid wetting foliage.

Alternaria Blight

Symptoms: Dark brown to black concentric ring-shaped spots on leaves that may enlarge and cause leaf drop.

Treatment: Prune and destroy affected foliage; apply an approved fungicide if the disease is severe.

Prevention: Avoid overhead watering, rotate plantings, and remove plant debris at the end of the season.