Thyme

How To Grow Thyme Leaves For Yourself
The herb thyme can be used to jazz up many different food dishes, buying it from the super market is one option, but to save you money why not try and grow it yourself. This short article will give you some insight into growing thyme leaves, this will help you save money and also add flavour to your food dishes.

To begin with, what is thyme? Thyme is a herb that grows well in sunny, somewhat dry conditions. It can add a great flavour to your meal.

Where Can You Purchase Thyme Seedlings or Root Division?

You can purchase thyme seedlings or division from your local nursery. They usually keep a few varieties for you to choose from. Please note that seedlings may take up to a year to grow, so root division is better if you wish a speedier result.

Where to Grow Thyme

thyme herb
Thyme likes light well-drained soil, which should not be too rich in nutrients. Too much nutrients will make your thyme lose its shape and texture. Since it is a Mediterranean plant it should be planted somewhere where it has full sun exposure. If it is shaded then it will not grow to its full capacity.

If you have decided to go with seedlings, they need to be sown around March in normal potting compost. Please note that because they are seeds they only need a fine layer of compost. Once you have done this you need to place them in a very warm and sunny area. In a week or more you should see a small sign of the seeds that have grown. When the frost period is over you can now move the seeds to their final destination. When planting them make sure they are planted about 30 centimetres apart, this will give each plant room to grow.

April is the time for roots to be divided. Using plants that are 3 to 4 years old, gently dig the plant up and clear away as much soil as you can, then gently separate the plant into 3 or 4 pieces. Each piece should have a good portion of foliage and root. Once divided you can now replant the pieces back into the ground for growth. When July comes around they should be ready for a moderate harvest.

Care of Thyme

thyme plant
Thyme is a very hardy plant that is why little care is needed in the growing process. If times get really dry (drier than the normal) then a slight watering is needed. In October, a good lot of mulch can help in their feeding requirements as well as keeping them safe and protected from frosts.

After about 3 to 4 years the thyme will start to so show and become woody, which will lead to few leaves. This is when you need to start separating them for replanting like discussed earlier.

Harvesting can be all year round but for the best flavours, it is best to harvest them during mid June to mid July. Although in winter be sure not over harvest as the plant stops growing through this season.

So if you are looking to add something more to your garden and/or food why not try and grow thyme leaves for you.