Holly's Homestead — Perennial Herb
Thyme
Thymus vulgaris · Mint family
DIFFICULTY Easy
TYPE Evergreen perennial shrub
MATURITY Usable from 8–10 weeks
TYPE Evergreen perennial shrub
MATURITY Usable from 8–10 weeks
Sun
Full sun
Water
Low, drought-tolerant once established
Soil pH
6.0–8.0
Spacing
30–40cm
Depth
as per pot
01Thrives on neglect
Thyme does best in lean, free-draining soil with minimal watering once established — rich soil and too much water actually weaken its flavour and vigour.
02Planting
Method
Plant from a nursery pot, or strike cuttings.
Soil
Free-draining, lean — avoid rich, heavily fed soil.
Timing
Plant in spring or autumn.
03Growing care
- Water sparingly once established.
- Trim after flowering to keep a compact, bushy shape.
- Avoid mulch touching the woody base.
- Divide or replace plants every few years as they get woody.
04Problems
- Root rot — from overwatering or poor drainage.
- Woody, sparse growth — from lack of trimming; prune regularly.
- Powdery mildew — poor airflow; space plants well.
- Few other issues — a hardy, low-maintenance herb.
05Harvest & storage
Signs
Usable year-round once established.
Method
Snip sprigs as needed.
Curing
Air-dry hanging in small bunches.
Storage
Fresh in the fridge 1–2 weeks; dried, airtight for a year or more.
06Companions & rotation
Plant nearby
CabbageTomatoAvoid nearby
Basil (different water needs)Rotation note
Not applicable — long-lived shrub.