I love to grow, particularly herbs and medicinal plants but also fruits, vegetables and plants for the home. I work as a horticulturist, specifically with plants for indoor spaces, and I study in my spare time. Even though I live in the city, I look for green spaces and places where people can enjoy nature and grow. Favourite fruits: fresh peaches and blueberries Favourite vegetables: leek, spinach, kale, mushrooms.
Thyme makes a valuable addition to any herb garden. Thyme care is not complicated, and with our tips, your thyme plant is bound to thrive.
Common thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a popular, low maintenance herb that requires little attention once established. Thyme prefers well-draining soil and lots of sunlight but can tolerate a range of conditions. Read on to find out all the necessary tips and tricks when it comes to thyme plant care.
Thyme prefers dry soil, so it is important not to overwater. So, how often to water thyme? Check the soil moisture with your finger. Dig about 2 to 3 cm deep with your finger into the soil. If it feels dry, water your thyme plant. Most likely, thyme will need a little more water in the summer—about once a week if it is hot and dry. Just ensure that the soil dries out completely between watering. That’s because thyme soil dries out faster in pots than in the ground, so you might need to water it more often. Again, check with your finger if the soil is dry and if it is, water it.
Potted thyme is more likely to die from too much water because the extra water can’t drain away as easily. To avoid overwatering, choose pots with drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix.
Tip: aim at the base of the plant when watering thyme as wet leaves can promote fungal growth.
Thyme requires little additional nutrients in order to flourish. In fact, thyme can make more leaves than the essential oils that give it its smell and taste if it gets too much fertilizer. When overfertilised, thyme tends to quickly shoot up and lose its low, creeping habitat. When planting in a bed or pot, all you need to do is mix a handful of compost into the growing medium. Our Plantura Organic All Purpose Compost is an excellent choice for this. Because it has the right amount of all the nutrients your thyme plant needs, it will grow strong and healthy.
Cutting back thyme plants is an important part of taking care of them because it keeps them in shape and helps them grow new leaves. The easiest way to do this is just by regularly harvesting thyme throughout the growing season. The leaves of thyme smell their best in the summer, right before they flower. This is the best time to pick thyme to dry and store for the next year. When pruning in late summer or early fall, don’t cut back too much. This can make the plant less winter-hardy.
It is also important to prune thyme in spring, just before it resprouts. Remove any frostbitten and dead, withered shoots at the base. To rejuvenate the remaining healthy thyme plant, cut the shoots just above the woody parts of the stems. This stimulates the formation of new shoots and prevents the thyme plant from becoming woody and leggy. To prune thyme, cut it just above a group of leaves or a node with clean scissors.
Tip: there are many varieties of thyme, each with its own fragrance. Read our list of the most popular types of thyme to choose which ones to plant in your own yard.
Thyme benefits from repotting every 1 to 2 years or once the plant has outgrown its pot. The best time to repot thyme is in early spring. Thyme forms an extensive root system and accordingly needs a lot of space. Choose a new pot that is at least a third larger than the root ball. Thyme thrives in a well-draining soil that mimics its native Mediterranean habitat. A soil made just for herbs, like our Plantura Organic Herb Its loose structure and low nutrient content provide the ideal conditions for thyme to flourish.
Incorporate 30% sand or perlite into the herb compost to increase water permeability. Also, put a layer of pebbles or broken clay shards at the bottom of the pot to help water drain away.
Thyme is a classic and versatile culinary herb that adds delightful flavor to many dishes. With its earthy, minty taste, thyme complements vegetables, meats, soups, and more. This aromatic herb is easy to grow indoors or outdoors. However, proper watering is key to keeping your thyme plants happy and healthy.
In this complete guide we’ll cover everything you need to know about how often to water thyme.
An Overview of Thyme’s Water Needs
Thyme is drought-resistant and doesn’t require frequent watering. In fact, overwatering is more likely to cause problems. Here are some key points to understand about thyme’s water requirements:
- Thyme prefers dry conditions and good drainage. Wet soil can lead to root rot.
- Established thyme plants need watering every 10-15 days, letting the soil dry out in between.
- Thyme planted in containers may need more frequent watering, as soil dries out faster. Check soil regularly.
- New thyme seedlings need more constant moisture to establish roots. Water more frequently.
- Hot and dry weather causes thyme to need more frequent watering. Adjust as needed.
- Thyme can withstand short periods of drought due to its Mediterranean origins.
How to Tell When Thyme Needs Watering
The best way to know if your thyme needs water is to check the soil. Here are tips for when to water:
- Stick your finger 1-2 inches into the soil. If it’s dry 2 inches down, it’s time to water.
- Pick up the pot and feel its weight. Much lighter means drier soil.
- Leaves may droop slightly when underwatered. But be sure drooping isn’t due to overwatering.
- If new growth is slow, thyme may need more frequent watering.
- In very hot weather, check soil every 2-3 days and water when dry 1 inch deep.
- Get to know your plants’ signs of underwatering and overwatering. Thyme leaves turning yellow or getting spots could mean too much water.
Watering Thyme Indoors vs. Outdoors
Caring for indoor and outdoor thyme isn’t radically different, but here are some tips:
- Outdoor thyme may need more watering with full sun and heat.
- Indoor thyme should be kept consistently moist but not wet as air is drier.
- Container thyme outdoors needs more watering than in-ground as containers dry out faster.
- Best practice is to check soil moisture and not water on a fixed schedule.
- When watering containers, add enough water so it drains from the bottom holes.
- Prevent fungal issues indoors with pots that drain well and water only when soil is partly dry.
How Much Water Does Thyme Need?
When watering thyme, focus on soaking the soil thoroughly, then letting it dry out. Here are some guidelines:
- For potted thyme, water until it drains from the pot’s bottom.
- For in-ground thyme, soak the soil around plants to 6-8 inch depth.
- For the first year, water new plants 1-2 times per week if soil gets dry.
- Mature thyme only needs a thorough soaking every 10-15 days.
- In very hot weather, established thyme may need watering every 5-7 days.
- After watering, don’t add more until soil is partly dry 1-2 inches down.
Watering Thyme Step-By-Step
Follow these steps when watering thyme plants:
- Check soil moisture by digging 1-2 inches deep into the soil. Water when partly dry.
- Water slowly and deeply, soaking the soil around and below thyme roots.
- For container thyme, add enough water so it drains from the pot’s bottom.
- For in-ground thyme, water around plants to a 6-8 inch depth.
- Avoid getting thyme leaves and stems wet when watering. Focus water at soil level.
- After watering, don’t add more until soil is partly dry again 1-2 inches down.
- Increase frequency if weather is hot and dry, decrease when cool and wet.
- Remove any saucers under containers quickly after watering so thyme doesn’t sit in water.
Common Problems to Avoid
Here are some common watering mistakes to avoid with thyme plants:
- Overwatering – Wet soil leads to root rot. Only water when partly dry.
- Underwatering – If leaves droop or growth is stunted, increase water frequency.
- Fixing on a strict schedule – Check soil as thyme’s needs change over time.
- Not watering thoroughly – Water should soak 6-8 inches deep in soil.
- Frequent light sprinkling – Thyme needs occasional deep soaking.
- Wet foliage – Water soil only to prevent diseases forming on leaves.
- Letting thyme sit in water – Use containers with holes and remove any water in trays.
Tips for Healthy, Flavorful Thyme
Here are some final tips to grow your best thyme plants:
- Ensure thyme gets 6+ hours of sun per day for its required light.
- Prune thymes regularly to promote bushy new growth.
- Fertilize lightly in spring and autumn. Excess nitrogen reduces flavor.
- Monitor for pests like aphids and spider mites that can plague thyme.
- Plant thyme with herbs like oregano, sage, and lavender for flavor synergy.
- Harvest thyme just before flowers bloom for peak flavor and oils.
Give your thyme the occasional deep watering and let the soil dry, and you’ll reap bountiful, flavorful harvests of this lovely herb over many years. With the proper care, thyme is an easy and rewarding plant for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike
Common Thyme Varieties
There are many varieties of thyme to choose from. Here are some of the most popular
- Lemon Thyme – Aromatic thyme with a lemon scent. Great for cooking fish.
- Creeping Thyme – Low-growing thyme good for ground cover. Blooms in pink, magenta, and lavender.
- Caraway Thyme – Has pale pink flowers and a caraway-like aroma.
- Silver Thyme – Grey-green leaves with white edges. Used ornamentally.
- English Thyme – Very hardy thyme perfect for beginners.
FAQ about Watering Thyme
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about watering thyme plants:
Can thyme be overwatered?
Yes, thyme can be overwatered. A quick soil check can save your thyme from drowning. If the soil clings to your finger like a wet sponge, it’s a sign of overwatering. Let the soil dry out before watering again, and consider improving drainage.
How much sun does thyme need?
Thyme does best in full sun. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal. Morning sun is especially helpful. Some afternoon shade in hot climates can be beneficial.
How often should potted thyme be watered?
Potted thyme needs more frequent watering than in-ground thyme, as containers dry out faster. Check soil regularly by touching it with your finger about 1-2 inches deep. Water container thyme whenever the top 2 inches of soil are dry.
Can thyme tolerate droughts?
Yes, thyme is highly drought tolerant thanks to its Mediterranean origins. Established thyme plants can withstand 1-2 weeks without water as long as they are in well-draining soil. But prolonged droughts of over 2-3 weeks may cause damage.
How do you revive an underwatered thyme plant?
If your thyme shows signs of underwatering like drooping or stunted growth, increase water frequency. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot or 6-8 inches deep in the ground. Gradually return to a normal watering schedule after a few deep waterings help revive it.
Follow these thyme watering tips, and you’ll have healthy, abundant thyme to flavor your cooking for years to come!
You want to know who’s behind Plantura?
I love to grow, particularly herbs and medicinal plants but also fruits, vegetables and plants for the home. I work as a horticulturist, specifically with plants for indoor spaces, and I study in my spare time. Even though I live in the city, I look for green spaces and places where people can enjoy nature and grow. Favourite fruits: fresh peaches and blueberries Favourite vegetables: leek, spinach, kale, mushrooms.
Thyme makes a valuable addition to any herb garden. Thyme care is not complicated, and with our tips, your thyme plant is bound to thrive.
Common thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a popular, low maintenance herb that requires little attention once established. Thyme prefers well-draining soil and lots of sunlight but can tolerate a range of conditions. Read on to find out all the necessary tips and tricks when it comes to thyme plant care.
Thyme prefers dry soil, so it is important not to overwater. So, how often to water thyme? Check the soil moisture with your finger. Dig about 2 to 3 cm deep with your finger into the soil. If it feels dry, water your thyme plant. Most likely, thyme will need a little more water in the summer—about once a week if it is hot and dry. Just ensure that the soil dries out completely between watering. That’s because thyme soil dries out faster in pots than in the ground, so you might need to water it more often. Again, check with your finger if the soil is dry and if it is, water it.
Potted thyme is more likely to die from too much water because the extra water can’t drain away as easily. To avoid overwatering, choose pots with drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix.
Tip: aim at the base of the plant when watering thyme as wet leaves can promote fungal growth.
Thyme requires little additional nutrients in order to flourish. In fact, thyme can make more leaves than the essential oils that give it its smell and taste if it gets too much fertilizer. When overfertilised, thyme tends to quickly shoot up and lose its low, creeping habitat. When planting in a bed or pot, all you need to do is mix a handful of compost into the growing medium. Our Plantura Organic All Purpose Compost is an excellent choice for this. Because it has the right amount of all the nutrients your thyme plant needs, it will grow strong and healthy.
- Perfect for all your house, garden & balcony plants
- For strong
- Peat-free & organic soil: CO2-saving composition
Cutting back thyme plants is an important part of taking care of them because it keeps them in shape and helps them grow new leaves. The easiest way to do this is just by regularly harvesting thyme throughout the growing season. The leaves of thyme smell their best in the summer, right before they flower. This is the best time to pick thyme to dry and store for the next year. When pruning in late summer or early fall, don’t cut back too much. This can make the plant less winter-hardy.
It is also important to prune thyme in spring, just before it resprouts. Remove any frostbitten and dead, withered shoots at the base. To rejuvenate the remaining healthy thyme plant, cut the shoots just above the woody parts of the stems. This stimulates the formation of new shoots and prevents the thyme plant from becoming woody and leggy. To prune thyme, cut it just above a group of leaves or a node with clean scissors.
Tip: there are many varieties of thyme, each with its own fragrance. Read our list of the most popular types of thyme to choose which ones to plant in your own yard.
Thyme benefits from repotting every 1 to 2 years or once the plant has outgrown its pot. The best time to repot thyme is in early spring. Thyme forms an extensive root system and accordingly needs a lot of space. Choose a new pot that is at least a third larger than the root ball. Thyme thrives in a well-draining soil that mimics its native Mediterranean habitat. A soil made just for herbs, like our Plantura Organic Herb Its loose structure and low nutrient content provide the ideal conditions for thyme to flourish.
- Perfect for herbs as well as sowing, propagating & transplanting
- For aromatic herbs & healthy seedlings with strong roots
- Peat-free & organic soil: CO2-saving composition
Incorporate 30% sand or perlite into the herb compost to increase water permeability. Also, put a layer of pebbles or broken clay shards at the bottom of the pot to help water drain away.
