Thymus vulgaris

Common thyme
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Size: Potmaat leidend
  • 5-10cm
    |
    Pot 9x9 cm (P9)
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    In stock
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Benefits according to our specialist
  • Plantable year-round
  • Fragrant
  • Low maintenance

Plant features Thymus vulgaris

Common thyme


Description Thymus vulgaris | Common thyme

The Thymus vulgaris, also known as common thyme or garden thyme, is a beloved perennial herb originating from the Western Mediterranean. With its aromatic leaves and charming flowers, it has become a staple in culinary gardens, borders, and pots worldwide. Thymus vulgaris is celebrated not only for its culinary uses but also for its ornamental appeal and fragrant foliage.

Key Features

The Thymus species boasts a number of distinctive attributes:

  • The plant is evergreen, providing a constant display of grey-green to silver foliage throughout the seasons.
  • At a height of merely 20 cm, garden thyme creates a charming, creeping ground cover with its widespread growth habit.
  • During the summer months, it blossoms with delicate flowers in shades of pink and white, attracting pollinators to the garden.
  • Thymus vulgaris is renowned for its versatility in use, suitable for borders, group planting, and as a fragrant edge alongside walkways.
  • The foliage is highly fragrant, making it a delightful addition to the garden that can also be used in a variety of culinary dishes.

Tips

  • For optimal growth, ensure that Thymus vulgaris is planted in a location that receives full sun, as it thrives best in such conditions.
  • Although common thyme has average water needs, it's important to plant it in well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging and ensure healthy growth.
  • Propagation can be done easily by division in spring or autumn to maintain plant vigor and encourage new growth.
  • Regular trimming after flowering will not only keep the plant compact but also stimulate the production of new, aromatic leaves for cooking.

Thymus vulgaris

Planting & care Thymus vulgaris (Common thyme)

We would like to provide some tips on how to plant and care for a Herb plants for pots or window boxes. By following these tips, you can be sure to enjoy your Herb plants for pots or window boxes for a long time.

Ideal placement of a Thymus vulgaris

For optimal growth, Thymus vulgaris should be situated in a location that receives full sun, as it thrives best under direct sunlight. This herbaceous perennial is well-suited for border accents, group plantings, or as a fragrant addition to pots and planters. It is adaptable to various soil types provided they are well-drained, which is essential to prevent root rot. Its silver-green foliage maintains its lustrous color throughout the seasons, adding year-round interest to the garden. When selecting a site for planting, consider a spot that mirrors its native Mediterranean conditions—warm and not overly moist.

How do I plant a Thymus vulgaris?

For successful establishment, plant Thymus vulgaris in a location that receives full sun, ensuring the soil is well-drained to accommodate its preferences. Planting from a pot allows for flexibility, with the option to introduce it into borders, group plantings, or containers. The ideal planting distance will vary based on the desired density of coverage, but generally, a spacing of 15-30 centimeters is recommended to allow for its creeping growth habit. Post-planting, water moderately to encourage root development without causing waterlogged conditions, which this species does not favor. Regular watering should be maintained until the plant is well-established.

Pruning a Thymus vulgaris

Pruning of Thymus vulgaris should be conducted post-flowering to maintain its compact form and encourage new growth. Aim to lightly trim the plant after its blooming period in late summer, ensuring to cut just above the wood part of the stems. This practice not only helps to prevent the plant from becoming woody and sparse, but also stimulates the production of fresh, aromatic foliage, keeping the growth vibrant and dense. Avoid heavy pruning as this can be detrimental to the plant's overall health.

Watering a Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris thrives with moderate watering, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot, particularly as this species prefers well-drained conditions. Watering should be more frequent during dry spells, reducing the frequency once established as the plant is not drought-resistant. To maintain the vibrancy of its evergreen foliage and support its flowering in the summer months, water deeply and less frequently to encourage a strong root system that can withstand the hot, sun-drenched locations it favors.

Fertilising a Thymus vulgaris

To sustain the aromatic qualities and robust growth of Thymus vulgaris, a thoughtful fertilization strategy is important. Fertilizing should be done sparingly as this species is adapted to the lean, well-drained soils of the Western Mediterranean. At the onset of the growing season in early spring, a light application of a slow-release fertilizer will suffice to provide the necessary nutrients for the upcoming months. Opt for a balanced, organic fertilizer to encourage healthy foliage without promoting excessive growth that could compromise the plant's hardy nature. Over-fertilization can lead to lush but weak growth, so it is crucial to adhere to moderate feeding. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure the optimal health and productivity of this evergreen herb.

The characteristics of a Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris thrives with minimal care, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance greenery. This species benefits from occasional trimming to promote bushier growth and to prevent legginess. It's worth noting that garden thyme, when planted in a pot, requires well-draining soil to prevent water from stagnating around its roots. Its aromatic foliage can also be dried and preserved, ensuring that its delightful flavor can be enjoyed year-round in culinary creations.

Separating/dividing a Thymus vulgaris

To propagate Thymus vulgaris effectively and maintain its health, division is recommended. When dividing, remove the entire plant from the ground, ensuring to keep the root mass intact. Carefully separate the clump into smaller sections, each with a sufficient amount of roots attached. These divisions should then be replanted into well-drained soil in a location that receives full sun, ideally during the cooler months of spring or autumn. This technique not only stimulates new growth but also rejuvenates the plant, enabling a lush, fragrant spread in the garden.

Thymus vulgaris

Frequently Asked Questions Thymus vulgaris (Common thyme)

What will be the height of Thymus vulgaris?

Thymus vulgaris can grow to be anywhere from 10 to 50 centimeters in height at maturity.

What will be the width of Thymus vulgaris?

Thymus vulgaris can achieve a final spread ranging from 10 centimeters to 50 centimeters.

Which soil type is most suitable for the Thymus vulgaris?

Thymus vulgaris can thrive in various soil types as long as the soil is well-drained. The plant prefers soil that allows excess water to drain away efficiently, promoting a healthy growing environment.

What is the ideal positioning for the Thymus vulgaris?

Thymus vulgaris thrives best when placed in a sunny location. This plant benefits from ample sunlight for its healthy growth and development.

What is the flowering colour of the Thymus vulgaris?

Thymus vulgaris displays flowers in shades of purple and white. The combination of these hues enhances the visual appeal of the plant during its flowering period.

Is the Thymus vulgaris hardy?

Thymus vulgaris is indeed a winter hardy plant. With a tolerance for temperatures ranging from -15.0°C to -9.4°C, it is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 7b to 8a. This indicates that Thymus vulgaris can effectively endure winter conditions within these specified temperature ranges.

Is the Thymus vulgaris evergreen?

Indeed, Thymus vulgaris is an evergreen plant. This means that it maintains its foliage throughout the year, providing greenery in all seasons.

What is the growth strength of the Thymus vulgaris?

Thymus vulgaris, commonly known as common thyme, takes approximately 5 to 10 years to reach its ultimate height. This indicates a moderate growth rate, allowing for a gradual development of the plant over time.

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Buy Thymus vulgaris

Discover the charm of Thymus vulgaris, a delightful herb that enhances any culinary garden with its fragrant foliage and tiny purple flowers. This hardy, perennial plant not only offers a versatile addition to your kitchen's fresh herbs but also adds a touch of elegance to your garden spaces.

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