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thyme common - thymus vulgaris

thyme - organic seeds or Thymus vulgaris

30% off
5 year guarantee Perfect for pollinators
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An aromatic, low growing herb, thyme is ideal for edging paths or filling pots on a sunny patio. The small flowers, which appear in late spring and early summer, come in a range of shades including pink, purple and white and are very attractive to bees. The scented foliage can be used fresh, dried or frozen to add flavour to a wide range of dishes. Keep Thymus vulgaris well trimmed to allow new growth to come through.

How to care for Thymus vulgaris:

Thyme thrives in full sun and well-drained, light, or sandy soil, making it ideal for rockeries, gravel gardens, and containers using loam based composts. It dislikes heavy, wet conditions, so improve drainage with grit or sand if necessary.

Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, as excess moisture can lead to root rot.

Lightly trim after flowering to remove dead blooms and encourage bushy growth, cutting back harder if needed to maintain a compact shape. Avoid overfeeding, as rich soil or excessive fertiliser can lead to leggy growth with reduced flavour and fragrance.

Most species are hardy but may struggle in prolonged wet or cold conditions, so ensure good drainage or provide winter protection in exposed areas. It is generally pest-free, but good air circulation helps prevent fungal issues.

Sowing instructions:

Surface-sow in pots or trays filled with barely moist seed compost and cover with a sprinkling of finely sieved compost. Place in a propagator at 15-20°C (60-70°F) until germination, which usually takes up to 24 days.

Pot on when large enough to handle and harden off before planting at 25cm (10in) intervals outside in late spring or early summer. Keep plants well trimmed to allow the new growth (which has the best flavour) to come through.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
0.3m
Eventual spread:
0.3m
Position:

Full sun

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

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