How to Plant Thyme in the Fall

Thyme is a universal herb found in countless cuisines around the world. Thyme originated in Greece, but is now an essential herb in Italian, French and even American cuisine. Planting your own thyme garden can be a rewarding and useful endeavor. Thyme needs heat and sun to thrive; therefore indoor planting is recommended in cold weather regions.

Thyme sprouts or transplants
Potting soil
Planters or containers

Instructions

- 1
  Depending on your climate and personal preference, decide whether to plant your thyme in a tilled garden bed or in pots, either outside or inside. Thyme can't withstand freezing temperatures. If you live in a region that experiences frost, plant the thyme indoors in growing pots or containers for a perennial result. If you live in a climate with reasonably warm weather year round, plant thyme outdoors in the fall or spring.
- 2
  Choose a sunny spot to start the garden or for the pot. Thyme needs heat and sun to grow. If planting indoors, place in the sunniest or westward facing window.
- 3
  Prepare the potting soil as a loose, fast-draining soil with a pH level around 6.0.
- 4
  Plant thyme plants or seedlings in rows or clumps about 6 to 8 inches apart. Do not overcrowd or they will not grow to their full size.
- 5
  Mulch the thyme beds or pots right away if planting outdoors in the fall. Use pine needle mulch. When spring arrives, remove the mulch and prune back any and all upper stems.
- 6
  Water the plant only during extremely dry conditions or when the soil appears dry. Thyme is a hardy plant and thrives on little care.
- 7
  Harvest the thyme just before the flowers bloom.

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