How to Grow Thyme From Seeds

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is popular for its pleasant aroma. It is a favorite herb of chefs around the world, and it can also be also found in many lotions, sachets, potpourri and candles. Thyme plants can be either annual or perennial, depending on their variety. Perennial thyme is best grown from cuttings or by plant division. Annual thyme is very undemanding to grow from seeds. You can sow thyme seeds directly in the garden,or start the seeds indoors in containers, then transplant them to the garden. Thyme thrives best in a garden site with well-drained soil that receives at least six hours of direct sunshine daily.

Container
Potting compost
Mulch (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Select a container that has one or more drainage holes in the bottom if starting thyme seeds indoors first.
- 2
  Fill the container to within 2 inches from the top rim with organic potting mixture.
- 3
  Dig very shallow holes in the potting mixture with your finger, then carefully place several thyme seeds in each hole.
- 4
  Backfill each hole with potting mixture, then tamp the soil very lightly with your finger. Thyme seeds are very small and don't need much soil to cover them.
- 5
  Water the soil gently directly after planting the seeds with a fine spray of water, then set the container in a warm, sunny location.
- 6
  Transplant the seedlings into the garden when they are 2 to 3 inches high, after all danger of frost has passed. Space the thyme seedlings 12 to 18 inches apart.

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