Spacing often depends on how quickly you want the area to fill in with growth. Will also tolerate poor soil, but avoid planting in heavy clay or in low spots prone to standing water. Soil requirements:Ĭreeping thyme thrives in sandy, silty, or rocky soils that provide excellent drainage. Water thoroughly and maintain consistent soil moisture until plants become established. Carefully untangle the roots and set the plant into its hole, gently filling the soil back around the roots until they are completely covered. To transplant thyme into the garden, dig a hole a bit wider and slightly shallower than the rootball. (Get these tips for growing plants from seeds.) It typically takes 2 to 3 weeks for thyme seeds to germinate. Sow seeds indoors in early spring or directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. May be started from seeds or nursery starts.
#COMMON THYME GROUND COVER FULL#
Where to plant:Ī site that receives full sun (at least 6 hours daily) is best for optimal flowering, but plants will also tolerate light shade. Avoid planting during the heat of the summer, when it’s difficult for plants to become established. In spring, after the threat of frost has passed, or in early fall.
Common thyme ( Thymus vulgaris) is a better choice for culinary purposes. Special attributes:Īlthough both the flowers and leaves are edible, they are generally not used for cooking because the fragrance and flavor are inconsistent.
Though it can spread quickly once established, creeping thyme is not invasive and easy to manage. The stems take root where they come in contact with the soil, with new shoots forming at the point where rooting occurs. Method of spreading:īy trailing stems that sprawl out horizontally from a central root system. Often semi-evergreen or evergreen in areas with mild winters. May be dark green, olive green, or gray-green, depending on the cultivar. Slightly hairy and elliptical, growing to 1/4 inch in length. Usually in shades of pink or purple, although some cultivars have red or white blooms. Star- or bell-shaped, measuring about 1/8 inch across. However, they should flower prolifically the following spring. Plants may not flower during their first growing season because they will be focusing all their energy on root development. Late spring to early summer, with the blooms lasting for 3 to 4 weeks. Plants may be slightly taller when in bloom. On this page: Basics | Planting | Care | Pictures | Landscaping IdeasĬreeping thyme, mother of thyme, wild thyme Plant type:ġ to 4 inches tall, spreading up to 18 inches. As a bonus, creeping thyme creates a colorful floral carpet in late spring, when it bursts into a profusion of dainty pink or purple flowers. Not only does this drought-tolerant perennial require much less water than traditional turf grass, it also spreads quickly to fill in bare spots. If you’ve only thought of thyme as a plant for the herb garden, you may be surprised to discover that there are also several creeping varieties valued more for their ornamental attributes than their culinary qualities.įorming a dense, ground-hugging mat of tiny evergreen leaves, creeping thyme is ideal for use as a foot-friendly groundcover to fill gaps between stepping stones and patio pavers, where the foliage will release its heady herbal scent whenever you tiptoe through it.īecause of its ability to withstand moderate foot traffic, creeping thyme can also be used as an easy-care lawn substitute, especially on sunny hillsides and slopes.
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