How to Prune Thymus Vulgaris

Prune thyme early in the morning before oils are reduced by sunshine and while the plant is turgid.

Prune in spring. The first seasonal pruning should follow growth and development of young leaves and stems. Prune where the dying or woody stem meets new, living growth. Cut back to new growth above a node. This promotes new growth on the re-emerging plant.

Prune thyme regularly at the top of the plant to encourage lateral growth and a bushier, more developed plant. Remove up to one-third of the plant using hand pruners or herb scissors.

Prune to stop flowers from forming, if you're not growing thyme for its flowers. When growing thyme plants for flowers and seeds, cease pruning in early summer. Prune again in mid to late summer when flowering stops, after collecting seeds.

Avoid pruning after September for thyme plants that will overwinter in the ground outdoors. New growth is not desirable now as the thyme plant is preparing for winter. Continue pruning containerized thyme that will spend the winter inside as a houseplant.