Thyme
A low-growing, evergreen perennial herb known for its robust, earthy flavour. Thyme is a resilient plant, perfect for hot, sunny spots and excellent for culinary use in stews, roasts, and marinades.
Thyme seeds
£1.79 in the shop
Calendar
Sow
March – May indoors, or April – June direct outdoors
Plant out
April – June, transplant seedlings or rooted cuttings
Harvest
May – October (leaves), year-round in mild climates
Conditions
Sun
Full sun, 6-8 hours a day
Water
Tolerant of drought once established; water sparingly, avoid wet feet
Soil
Well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil, pH 6.0–8.0
Spacing
20-30cm (8-12 inches) apart
Containers
Excellent in pots (15-20cm diameter) or rockeries
Indoors
Can be grown indoors on a bright, sunny windowsill, but ensure good air circulation
Care and harvest
Feeding
Minimal feeding needed; thrives in poor soil
Pruning
Lightly prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth; cut back by a third in spring
Harvesting
Snip sprigs as needed, preferably before flowering for best flavour
Storage
Keep in a plastic bag in the fridge for a week, or dry/freeze sprigs
Good companions: Cabbage, Potatoes, Roses