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Growing Thyme: Low-Growing Perennial Herb for Gardens and Kitchen

Thyme is a small perennial shrub with many branches, light purple/pink flowers. Aromatic, pleasant, pungent, clover flavor. 50+ varieties for cooking/gardening. English thyme most common in cooking.

Planting

Seeds: slow, uneven germination. Easier: buy plants or take cuttings.
Head start: seeds/cuttings indoors 6–10 weeks before last frost.
2–3 weeks before last frost: well-drained soil, 9 inches apart. Soil ~70°F.
Height 6–12 inches.
Garden: near cabbage.

Care

Water normally, trim regularly.
Spring/summer pruning contains growth. Take cuttings for indoor pots.
Cold winters: light mulch after ground freezes.

Pests and Diseases

Gray mold
Root rot

Harvest and Storage

Summer: harvest leaves/sprigs anytime.
Dry: hang in dark, ventilated, warm area. Or tray-dry leaves. Store airtight.
Freezing works too.

Recommended Varieties

Lemon thyme – hint of lemon
Caraway thyme – caraway+thyme fragrance

Wit & Wisdom

Burning thyme repels house insects.

Gardening tips: Basil: Planting, Growing, and Harvesting the King of Summer Herbs; Dill: Planting, Growing, and Harvesting for Pickling and Beneficial Insects; Growing Thyme: A Complete Guide to Planting, Care, and Harvest; Growing Broccoli: Cool-Season Crop for Spring and Fall Harvests; Growing Brussels Sprouts: A Long-Season Crop Sweetened by Frost; Growing Carrots: Easy Root Vegetables for Sandy Soil; Growing Cauliflower: A Cool-Season Challenge Worth the Effort; Growing Okra: Heat-Loving Southern Favorite with Beautiful Flowers; Growing Basil: Planting, Care, and Harvest for Fresh Herbs All Summer; Growing Dill: Easy Annual Herb for Pickling and Beneficial Insects

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