How to Grow Thyme

Buy plants at an herb nursery for planting in spring. Seeds germinate slowly and erratically, and most thyme varieties don't reproduce consistently from seed.

Choose a site with full sun and well-drained, preferably dry soil with any pH from 6.0 to 8.0. Work plenty of organic matter into the soil to ensure good drainage.

Set plants 6 to 12 inches apart, depending on the variety (check the plant label or a comprehensive herb book).

Cut plants back after they flower in summer to promote bushiness.

Protect plants with a winter mulch if the variety is not reliably hardy in your area (ask at the nursery when you buy your plants or consult an herb book).

Divide plants every three or four years to keep them dense and healthy (see "How to Divide Perennials").

Clip foliage and flowers anytime you need them. The more you cut, or even shear back, the more the plants will grow.