Creeping thyme is a fragrant, hardy groundcover that can make a beautiful lawn alternative or pathway border. With its tiny leaves and showy flowers, this plant releases a pleasant aroma when stepped on. If you want to grow your own carpet of creeping thyme from seeds, you may be wondering when is the best time to sow them.
An Overview of Creeping Thyme
With over 350 varieties, thyme comes in many forms, but creeping thyme (Thymus praecox) is a low-growing type that tends to hug the ground. Unlike upright thyme shrubs, this variety spreads via creeping stems that grow along the soil. Given the right growing conditions, it will readily form a dense, weed-suppressing mat.
Key features of creeping thyme
- Thrives in USDA zones 4-9
- Tolerates some foot traffic
- Drought resistant once established
- Usually avoided by deer and rabbits
- Small lavender flowers attract pollinators
- Foliage releases fragrance when walked on
- Culinary varieties can be used for cooking
When planted en masse creeping thyme makes an attractive aromatic groundcover or lawn substitute. The tiny leaves and flowers weave together to form a tapestry of color and texture.
When to Direct Sow Creeping Thyme Outdoors
Creeping thyme can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or transplants Starting from seeds takes patience but allows you to grow a thyme lawn more affordably
The ideal time to sow creeping thyme seeds directly in the garden is in late spring once soil temperatures reach at least 65-70°F. This usually occurs 4-6 weeks after the average last spring frost date for your region.
Planting too early while soils are still cool risks poor germination. Waiting until mid or late summer means hot temperatures that can hinder seedling establishment. Creeping thyme prefers cooler conditions.
Follow these tips when sowing creeping thyme seeds outdoors:
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Prepare soil by mixing 1-2 inches of compost or aged manure to improve drainage. Creeping thyme needs well-draining soil.
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Sow seeds close together in rows or broadcast over prepared soil. Cover very lightly with 1/8 inch soil or just press into the surface.
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Water gently daily until seedlings emerge, which can take 14-28 days.
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Once seedlings reach 2 inches, thin to 6-12 inches apart.
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Apply a thin layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
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Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil become dry. Avoid overwatering.
Starting Indoors for a Head Start
For earlier establishment, you can begin creeping thyme seeds indoors up to 10 weeks before your area’s last expected spring frost.
Tips for starting inside include:
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Sow seeds in sterile seed starting mix. Cover lightly or just press into the mix.
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Maintain temperatures between 60-70°F.
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Keep soil evenly moist but not saturated.
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Once sprouted, move under grow lights, providing 14-16 hours of daily light.
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Transplant each seedling into its own container after first true leaves emerge.
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Harden off plants for 7-14 days before transplanting outside after danger of frost has passed.
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Space transplants 8-12 inches apart into garden beds. Water after planting and as needed.
Spring is Best for Planting
Regardless of starting indoors or direct sowing, it’s best to get creeping thyme planted in spring. Fall planting is not recommended because plants need time to establish before winter dormancy. While established creeping thyme may continue spreading in fall, don’t expect quick establishment from seeds or new transplants planted then.
Growing Creeping Thyme in Hot Climates
In warm regions, creeping thyme will appreciate some relief from intense summer heat. Consider planting in part shade or areas with afternoon shade. Late summer/early fall sowing can also work for establishment before winter dormancy, planting at least 6 weeks before expected first fall frost.
Apply mulch to help retain moisture. Avoid heavy fertilization that can increase drought stress. In very hot climates, creeping thyme may go dormant in summer, recovering when temperatures cool.
Ongoing Care of Creeping Thyme Lawns
Once established, creeping thyme requires minimal care:
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Water during dry periods but avoid overwatering. Mature creeping thyme is quite drought tolerant.
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Fertilize lightly, if at all. Excess nitrogen leads to floppy growth.
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Shear back by 1/3 after flowering to encourage dense growth.
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In cold areas, apply winter mulch after ground freezes to prevent frost heave.
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Pull weeds when small and reseed bare patches.
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Aerate compacted areas and top dress with a thin layer of compost.
With proper site preparation and care of young plants, a creeping thyme lawn will establish in the first year, filling in thicker in subsequent seasons. In time, it becomes a gorgeous, fragrant groundcover requiring little mowing or watering.
Where to Buy Quality Creeping Thyme Seeds
When purchasing creeping thyme seeds, look for named cultivars like ‘Pink Chintz’ or ‘Coccineus’ rather than generic “creeping thyme.” Reputable sources include:
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Botanical Interests – Sells individual varieties suited to growing conditions.
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Sow True Seed – Offers creeping thyme seeds like ‘Mother of Thyme.’
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Mountain Valley Growers – Sells seeds of varieties like ‘Pink Chintz’ and ‘Coccineus.’
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Outsidepride – Sells creeping thyme seeds by weight, including lemon thyme.
When shopping for creeping thyme seeds, choose a reliable seller and variety matched to your climate. Follow the planting guidelines above to grow a vibrant creeping thyme lawn. With proper preparation and care, you’ll enjoy this hardy, aromatic groundcover for years.
How to Plant Creeping Thyme Seeds
Creeping Thyme seeds require light to germinate, so be careful not to cover them when planting. Learn more about germination light requirements here.
Direct Sow seeds outdoors when temperatures are consistently in the high 60s or above. Division of established plantings can be done in March and April. Fall plantings should be avoided to protect against freeze damage. Average germination time should be approximately 21-28 days and seeds should be kept consistently moist until germination is strong. When planting, seeds should not be covered with soil, but rather pressed into the soil. Good seed to soil contact is necessary for ideal germination rates.
Once seeds are germinating well, water to a depth of 6 inches when the top few inches of soil dries out. A light mulching may be helpful to retain moisture in warmer and drier climates, but if seeds are planted in between pavers or in shadier areas mulching is usually not necessary. A light dose of delayed release fertilizer can be useful if you are planting in poorer soil, but good soil preparation (mixing in a 2-3 inch layer of manure, compost or other organic material prior to planting) should negate the need for fertilizer.
When to Plant Creeping Thyme Seeds
Creeping Thyme is a perennial herb which will over-winter well in zones 4-9. Direct sow seeds outdoors in late spring when temperatures are consistently in the high 60’s or above. Seeds can also be started indoors 8-10 weeks before your average last frost date.
How to Grow CREEPING THYME FROM SEED| Use as a Groundcover or Culinary Herb |BirdofParadise
FAQ
Can I just scatter creeping thyme seeds?
It’s easy to grow creeping thyme herb from seed. Start by sowing the seeds indoors about 8 weeks before the last spring frost. Scatter over a seed-starting mix, lightly pressing into the surface as the seeds need light to germinate. Keep the mix consistently moist and provide plenty of light.
How long does it take for creeping thyme to grow from seed?
Creeping Thyme Ground Cover can be grown from seed, and it takes 14 to 21 days to sprout in USDA Zones 3 – 9. Thyme ground cover grows in well drained soil that is either neutral or slightly alkaline and loves full sun. Creeping Thyme self-sows easily, dropping it seeds after blooming season is over.
What is the best time to plant creeping thyme?
If you’re growing creeping thyme from nursery starts, put the plants in garden beds in spring after the danger of frost has passed. Creeping thyme plants can grow as individual plants, but they look even more bewitching when planted together as a flowering groundcover or lawn alternative.
Does creeping thyme come back every year?
In regions where winters are cold, plants may lose their foliage, but it will quickly grow back the following spring. To prevent frost or freeze damage during the winter months, cover creeping thyme with several inches of a loose mulch, such as leaf mold.