Thymus vulgaris

A small bushy evergreen shrub growing up to 30cm in height and 50cm wide.

Small evergreen Mediterranean plant with grey green aromatic leaves.
flowering period: late spring to early summer.
Flowers: A mass of tiny lilac flowers

Prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade and moderate frosts.

Always choose healthy well grown plants and plant after autumn rains as the soil is moist and warm and allows plants to become established before winter. This enables them to withstand dry periods during the following summer. Young plants require thorough watering during dry periods over the first two or three years mulching helps to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Planting success is often improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and raising beds. Incorporate coarse sand, bark, compost or other organic material to improve soil structure.

Before planting ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball and firm in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. Plant with some general slow release fertiliser and then every spring apply an organic based fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square meter as new growth emerges.

Mulching annually helps suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Organic materials such as sawdust and bark contribute to soil structure as they decompose but keep mulching material away from the trunk. They benefit from a dressing (50g/m2) of general purpose fertiliser in early spring as new growth begins this will encourage more vigorous healthy growth. Sprinkle evenly and work into the top 2 to 3cm of the soil taking care not to damage surface roots.

The first summer and autumn after planting is critical for young plants; water thoroughly during dry periods. Pests and diseases can have serious debilitating effects on young plants; check regularly.

Trim back plants a couple of times a year to limit woody growth and to stimulate new growth. Harvest leaves throughout the summer as needed. Plants tend to become overly woody after several years at which point replacement should be considered. Softwood cuttings can be taken from spring to autumn or check under plants for already rooted stems as these are easy to separate off and replant. Alternatively, purchase new plants in autumn.

The flowers are pollinated by bees and flies. It is noted for attracting insects and butterflies.

Some susceptibility to root rot particularly if the soil is too moist, but is generally pest and disease-free.

Herb Garden