Thyme Common Seeds (Thymus vulgaris)

Common Thyme is a Hardy Perennial (evergreen in mild winters).

It forms a low, woody bush that lasts for many years. Over time, Thyme can become "leggy" with bare woody stems and leaves only at the tips.

Top Tip: Give it a haircut! After it finishes flowering in late summer, trim the whole plant back with shears (but not into the old brown wood). This keeps it tight, bushy, and full of fresh leaves for the kitchen.

Thyme seeds are tiny dust-like specks that need light to germinate.

Germination:
Sow indoors from February to April. Scatter the seeds on the surface of moist, free-draining compost. Do not cover them (or use a tiny dusting of vermiculite), as they need light to trigger growth. Keep warm (18-20°C). Germination can be slow, taking 14-28 days.

Where to Sow:
It demands full sun and sharp drainage. It hates sitting in wet soil, especially in winter. If you have heavy clay, you must add grit or grow it in a raised bed or pot.

Care While Growing:
Water sparingly. Thyme tastes better when grown "hard" (with less water). Avoid rich fertilisers, as they make the growth soft and reduce the aromatic oils.

Thyme loves company that enjoys the same hot, dry Mediterranean conditions:

• 🍕 Oregano 'Greek': The perfect culinary pair. Plant them side-by-side for a "Pizza Patch." Both require excellent drainage and full sun, and their contrasting leaf textures look beautiful together.
• 💜 Lavender 'Munstead': Ideally suited for dry gardens. Thyme creates a low, fragrant carpet at the feet of the taller Lavender bushes. Both are deer-resistant and drought-tolerant.

Sow indoors in spring. Harvest leaves year-round (best flavour in summer).