

This dense growing habit out-competes and smothers weeds, making it a good alternative to a grass lawn, especially when planted in staggered rows. Flowers appear in clusters of small red/purple, white, or pink/pale pink flowers at the end of stems in late spring and mid-summer.Ĭreeping thyme smells wonderful and is a ground cover that spreads through rhizomes growing across the soil surface. The tiny oval-shaped leaves are slightly hairy and highly aromatic, with tender new stems having the best flavor and strongest aroma. It has a sprawling growth habit, growing to 3-4 inches tall above the ground and spreading 6-18 inches. Both varieties are part of the mint family, Lamiaceae, and originate from southern Europe and Asia.Ĭreeping thyme is a short-lived woody perennial that lasts around 3 to 5 years before becoming unproductive and spindly. There are two main varieties of thyme that have a low growing habit and are commonly referred to as “creeping thyme”: Thymus praecox and Thymus serpyllum. Thyme ground cover is a popular choice for gardeners who want to add a touch of color and fragrance to their landscape. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture in warmer climates, but be sure not to let the mulch touch the plant itself. Dig a shallow hole for each new plant and tamp down the earth around it, making sure the roots are in contact with the soil below.Īfter planting, keep the transplants and soil moist until they have acclimated to their new environment.
#GROWING THYME GROUND COVER FREE#
If the plant is root-bound, gently tease apart the roots until a few rootlets are free from the tangle. When transplanting, take care not to damage the roots.

For ground cover, space the plants 12 to 18 inches apart. For filling spaces between flagstones, leave four to six inches between each plant. When planting, space the plants according to their intended use. Before planting, remove any weeds and level the ground to ensure a smooth surface for the ground cover. It’s important to choose an area that receives at least four hours of sunlight per day and has well-draining soil. This allows the roots to establish themselves during the growing season. The ideal time to plant creeping thyme ground cover is in late spring or early summer, after the threat of frost has passed. In this article, we’ll explore the optimal planting times and techniques for creeping thyme, so you can enjoy a thriving garden all year round.

This versatile plant not only provides a lush carpet of greenery, but also attracts bees with its fragrant flowers and can even be used in cooking.īut when is the best time to plant this hardy ground cover? Are you looking for a low-maintenance ground cover that adds both beauty and functionality to your garden?
