German Winter Thyme Guide

Break out Oma’s cookbook and drop a bundle of fresh German Winter Thyme into your next savory marinade or soup, sprinkle some onto your meat before cooking, or just enjoy the beautiful aroma in your home. Regardless of what you choose to do, you can't go wrong with homegrown thyme.

 

TO SOW

Thyme grows well in a wide range of temperatures between 65°F-85°F. They do great in containers and gardens. Bank on Seeds recommends transplanting.

If Direct Seeding

• Direct seed outside 4-5 weeks after last frost date; or

• Direct seed into a container 8 inches deep and wide anytime of the year. It can be placed outside when the temperature is between 65°F-85°F; or

If Transplanting

Begin the growing season early and start the thyme seeds indoors in pods 6 weeks before the last frost date; germination is best between 65°F-75°F. It can be transplanted outside 10 weeks later.

Surface sow thyme seeds 12 inches apart by pressing them gently into well raked soil – no need to cover with soil as they need light to germinate. If planting multiple rows, leave 8-12-24inches in between. Germination will take 14-28 days. Thin to

12 inches apart when the seedlings start competing for space or light.

TO GROW

Thyme only needs well-drained soil. They also love full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Water every week in the first 4 weeks. Once established, water moderately, letting the soil dry fully before watering again – check the top 4-5 inches and if dry, then water the soil. Thyme is suited to moderately dry climate.

Option to add slow release fertilizer once a year or mix in aged compost or use 10-10-10 fertilizer every 6-8 weeks.

TO REAP

Thyme is full grown (mature) in 70 days. Cut fresh stems and sprigs as needed to use fresh or cut entire plant to dry upside down to be stored for use later. Cutting back encourages more growth. 

PESTS/DISEASES

Aphids, spider mites – handpick or spray off, neem oil, weed often or mulch, cut off infected parts

Root rot – ensure soil is well draining or the container has good drainage holes that are not blocked

*Plant thyme with broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, tomatoes, strawberries, and eggplants. Avoid planting with parsley, cilantro, chives, or basil. *