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Thyme

Herbs

Thyme

Thymus vulgaris

RHS Plants for Pollinators

An aromatic perennial, which offers culinary as well as ornamental value. In early summer, masses of tiny pink flowers appear, that are highly attractive to bees. A drought-resistant plant that does best in poorer, well-drained soils in full sun.

Position
Full sun
Height
30cm
Spread
30cm

Growing calendar

JFMAMJJASOND
Sow indoors
Sow outdoors
Flowering
Harvest

Sowing & growing

Sow under cover Feb-April in moist, seed compost and cover with fine layer of soil. Propagate at temperatures of 10-15°C. Transplant seedlings once large enough to handle and plant out 20cm apart once all risk of frost has passed. Alternatively, April-May sow directly outside in well-drained soil in shallow drills 30cm apart. Pinch out the growing tip of plants to encourage side shoots.

Aftercare

Trim back lightly after flowering to maintain a bushy habit. Leaves can be used fresh when required, or hung-dried in small bunches for winter use. Do not cut back too hard.

Ref. SET004