How to Plant a Thyme Lawn from Seeds

Overview

Lawns aren't just grass. Groundcover lawns add landscape appeal. Thyme is an excellent herb groundcover. Plugs give quick coverage; seeds are a cheaper alternative.

Planting Steps

Step 1: Prepare Site

Select sunny location. Remove all vegetation including grass. Improve soil: add bonemeal for root growth, humus fertilizer (compost) for nutrients/microbes. Follow package instructions. Mix thoroughly with rake.

Step 2: Choose Variety

300+ Thymus species exist. Mat-forming types suit lawns. Low-growing: woolly thyme (T. praecox), mother of thyme (T. pulegioides), miniature thyme (T. praecox minimus).

Step 3: Sow Seeds

After frost danger passes, sow on calm day. Evenly scatter on raked soil. Lightly rake in. Cover with fine clean mulch to hold seeds and retain moisture.

Step 4: Water and Establish

Water immediately. Avoid walking on germinating seeds. Don't let soil dry during establishment. Water every few days first weeks. Mature lawn: water well every 7–10 days.