Organic Common Thyme

English Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

• Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)
• Native Range: Africa and Western Europe
• Hardiness: Perennial in USDA zones 5–9, thriving in a range of climates with proper drainage and sun exposure
• Sun Requirements: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, though flowering and oil production may be more robust in full sunlight
• Growth Habit & Size: Compact, bushy, and low-growing, reaching 6"–12" tall and wide, making it an excellent choice for borders, rock gardens, or container gardening
• Foliage & Aroma: Features tiny (¼") evergreen leaves with a deep, earthy fragrance.
• Flowers: Produces delicate white to light pinkish-purple blooms in early summer, adding ornamental value to gardens and attracting beneficial insects

When to Sow Outdoors:

• Direct sow 1 to 2 weeks after your last average frost date, when soil temperatures have warmed to at least 68°F.
• Choose a well-draining location with full sun to part shade

When to Start Indoors: (Recommended for best results)

• Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before your last expected frost date
• Keep soil temperature between 70°–80°F for optimal germination
• Use a light, well-draining seed-starting mix and maintain even moisture until germination
• After the risk of frost has passed, harden off seedlings gradually before transplanting them into a permanent outdoor location with well-draining soil

Days to Emerge: Thyme seeds can be slow to sprout, typically taking 14–28 days

Moisture Needs: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during germination

Seed Depth: Sow seeds ⅛ inch deep—cover lightly or simply press into the soil surface

Plant Spacing: Thin or transplant seedlings 8 inches apart to allow for healthy airflow and root development

Row Spacing: Maintain 12 inches between rows for easy access and maintenance

Days to Maturity: Ready for first harvest in about 85 days, though thyme becomes more vigorous in its second year

Long-Term Care: Once established, thyme is drought-tolerant and thrives with minimal maintenance

Get the most out of your thyme with our Thyme Grow Guide—packed with expert tips and step-by-step instructions for a thriving herb garden

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If your seeds don’t sprout, your plants don’t thrive, or you’re just not completely happy with your purchase, we’ll replace it or refund it—no questions asked.