When to plant Creeping thyme?

Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it ideal for rockeries, path edges, gravel gardens, and gaps in paving. It tolerates sandy, loamy, and chalky soils but will not survive in heavy clay or waterlogged ground. If your soil is heavy, dig in plenty of horticultural grit or sharp sand to improve drainage before planting. Plant in March, April, or May for establishment before summer, or in September and October when soil is still warm but rainfall helps roots settle. Space plants 30 cm apart to allow them to spread and knit together into a low mat. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, place the plant so the crown sits level with the soil surface, and backfill gently. Firm in lightly with your fingers—avoid compacting the soil too much around the roots. Water in well immediately after planting, even though creeping thyme has low water needs once established. For the first few weeks, water occasionally if the weather is dry to help roots establish, but avoid keeping the soil constantly moist. A thin layer of grit or gravel mulch around the plants improves drainage, suppresses weeds, and keeps the foliage dry, reducing the risk of rot. If planting in paving crevices or between stepping stones, scrape out the joint to a depth of at least 5 cm, fill with a mix of compost and grit, and tuck in small plugs. Creeping thyme is evergreen and will provide year-round interest, gradually spreading to form a fragrant, low carpet that tolerates light foot traffic once mature.