Caring for Thyme

Thyme is a low-maintenance herb once established, requiring minimal intervention. Its water needs are low; in fact, overwatering is the most common cause of failure. Water sparingly during prolonged dry spells in the first growing season, but once the roots are established, thyme tolerates drought well and rarely needs watering except in containers. In pots, allow the compost to dry out between waterings and ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Feeding is not necessary. Thyme naturally grows in poor, stony soils in the Mediterranean and actually produces more flavourful, aromatic foliage when grown lean. Avoid fertilisers, which encourage soft, sappy growth prone to winter damage and reduce the concentration of essential oils that give thyme its flavour and scent. Thyme is evergreen and fully hardy in zones 5a–9b, so it requires no special protection over winter in our climate. However, it dislikes sitting in cold, wet soil during winter, so ensure drainage remains good. A gravel mulch helps. In very exposed sites or heavy clay, consider growing thyme in containers that can be moved to a sheltered spot if necessary. Pests are rarely a problem, though thyme can occasionally suffer from root rot (Phytophthora) in waterlogged conditions—prevent this with good drainage. Aphids may appear on soft new growth in spring; wash them off with water or tolerate them, as they seldom cause lasting harm. Harvest leaves and sprigs freely from May to September. Thyme's flavour is strongest just before flowering in early summer, but you can pick year-round as needed, as it remains evergreen.