What can be better than the smell of homemade chicken soup simmering on the stove? One of my favorite additives to chicken soup is the herb thyme. Thyme is an herb that can be used with so many things and in so many different ways it is a must have for your garden. Many have said, “When in doubt, use thyme.”
Examples
Many different kinds of thymes can mimic the taste and smell of other herbs. There are two main types of thyme. Thymus vulgaris, common thyme, is an upright plant that has many different varieties such as Thymus citriodorus, lemon thyme and Thymus citriodorus ‘Argenteus, Silver Thyme. Thymus praecox is a creeping thyme also with many varieties such as Thymus praecos articus, Mother of Thyme and Thymus pseudolanuginosus, Woolly Thyme.
Special Features
Thyme has been used since ancient times. Native to the Mediterranean, it is believed that the name Thymus came from the Greeks who loved it for its style and elegance. It is uncertain whether the name came from the word for courage or the Greek word meaning to fumigate as it was used to get rid of insects. Early Egyptians used thyme in embalming. Faeries were believed to love thyme and live in it; some gardeners even grew patches for the faeries.
Medicinally thyme has been used for many different health issues. It has been commonly used in cough medicines. The Greeks used thyme as an antiseptic, a use that has continued and has been an ingredient in lotions and mouthwashes. It has also been used for headaches, asthma, stomach cramps, colic and flatulence.
And what kitchen would be complete without thyme? Thyme is a wonderful addition to most meats, soups, vinegars and salads. It is also a wonderful addition to a homemade bread (especially if blended with oregano and basil). Thyme can be added to tomatoes, potatoes,
corn and rice.
Dried thyme flowers can be used in between sheets as a sachet. Sprigs of thyme are a nice addition to any herbal or floral wreath.
Hardiness
Thyme is hardy to Zones 5-9. Thyme is a hardy perennial.
Growth Habit
The upright variety of thyme grows to a height of 4-12 inches. The creeping variety grows only to approximately 5 inches, some lower.
Creeping thyme used between stepping stones lets off a lovely aroma as well as producing beautiful blossoms during bloom time.
Bloom Time
Thyme will bloom mainly in June and July. Each plant is covered with tiny blossoms of different colors depending on the variety. Bees are attracted to the flowers making this a good addition to floral or herb beds wishing to attract bees.
Propagation
Propagation can be done by seed. Started in seed pots 6-8 weeks before the last frost, they are easily germinated. Putting several seeds in a 4” pot will give you small bunches of thyme that when transplanted will be a thicker, stronger plants. The seeds will need a temperature of 70° to germinate. Mist the seeds daily until they sprout. After germination water the base of the plants.
Thyme can also be propagated by division or cutting.
Transplanting
Transplanting is most easily done when the seeds are germinated in the 4” pots as they can be planted as a group rather than trying to make sure the fine roots of the seedlings are not disturbed. Some gardeners bury half of the seedling group to secure the tender seedling into the ground.
Soil and Sunlight
The pH of the soil should be 6.3.
Thyme likes sun, but can also grow in partial shade, especially if used as a border plant.
Thymes do best in a soil that borders on poor as long as it is a well drained soil.
Care
Thyme is an extremely easy herb to grow. When watering make sure not to water the leaves as it will lessen its fragrance.
Pests and Disease
Fungal diseases can be a concern for thyme as well as root rot if not in well drained soil. Spider mites can also be disastrous for the plants. They can be removed by spraying soap water on the plants.
References
Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs
by Claire Kowalchik and William H. Hylton (Editors)
The Herbal Companion
Theresa Loe, Gramercy Books, Copyright 1996