German Winter
Thyme Seed
The standard winter-hardy thyme.
Good flavor and yield. Classic culinary and ornamental herb. Small, round to needle-shaped evergreen leaves on woody stems. Mulch in cold winter climates. Perennial in Zones 5–8.
Edible Flowers: The flowers are small, but have a mild thyme flavor. Use the flowers in potato dishes and salads.
Growing Information
DAYS TO GERMINATION:14-21 days at 65–70°F (18–21°C).
SOWING:Transplant (recommended): Start seeds in flats 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Sow seeds on top of the growing medium and cover with a thin layer of soil mix. Keep moist until germination. Transplant to individual containers when plants have 4 true leaves. After the last frost in spring, transplant outside and space 6-8" apart, in rows 12-18" apart. Pinch off growing tips of upright growing varieties to make bushier plants.
LIGHT PREFERENCE:Sun/Part Shade. In very hot climates, thyme will need part shade to do well.
SOIL REQUIREMENTS:Thyme grows best in light, dry, well-drained soil.
PLANT HEIGHT:Varies.
PLANT SPACING:6-8".
HARDINESS ZONES:Varies.
HARVEST:Cut only a few stems the first year in order for the plants to winter over. In subsequent years, harvest just as the flowers being to open. Cut back to within 4-5" above the ground.
Note:Thyme will become woody and needs to be divided or replaced after 3-4 years.
SCIENTIFIC NAME:Thymus spp.
