Growing your own herbs is rewarding and a great way to add an extra touch of flavor to your favorite dishes! Freshly harvested thyme is one of the most popular herbs in home gardens and it's easy to grow in pots.

Not sure where to start? Don't worry! In this helpful guide, you'll read all the tips and tricks necessary for successful thyme growing. Whether you have experience or are completely new at gardening, there's something here for everyone. If you're looking to add some delicious homegrown herbs into your culinary repertoire, why not start with thyme!

Choose the Right Type of Pot

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When it comes to growing thyme in pots, the type of pot you choose makes a big difference. Clay or terracotta pots are great for outdoor plants as they are porous, which helps to regulate moisture levels, although they'll need to be brought indoors during colder weather.

If you prefer something that is more lightweight and easier to move around, then plastic pots may be an option. Remember, plastic is not usually the best choice for potting herbs because of its tendency to retain moisture longer than other materials. Upside down or hanging pots are always a great option, as they transform your patio to a beautifully scented oasis.

Whichever option you go with, get one that has adequate drainage holes at the base so that excess water escapes and you avoid root rot. A 6-inch pot should provide plenty of room for your thyme plant's roots to spread out and give it enough space to grow healthy foliage on top.

Seed or Plant

pepper seeds in hand

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It's clear to see why so many gardeners prefer to start thyme from plants rather than seeds. Planting thyme from seed is a slow process, as germination takes up to 20 days. On the other hand, growing thyme from plants gives you instant gratification. Planting established thyme saves you time when it comes to cultivating your herb garden.

Select the Right Soil

Potting Soil

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When it comes to selecting the right soil for your thyme, you want to choose something that is light and airy with good drainage. Potting soil specifically designed for herbs provide the best conditions for healthy root growth.

A gritty potting medium, such as a sandy soil, is also ideal as it helps ensure optimal drainage. Use a high-quality, sterile potting mix to give your thyme the best chance of survival and flourishing.

Light Requirements

Thyme close up in a hanging pot

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Thyme loves the sun! Place your thyme container in an area where it gets plenty of direct sunlight for about 10 hours per day.

If you are growing thyme indoors, a windowsill that faces south or west works best. If you're growing thyme outdoors, you could also set up a patio table with a few other potted herbs and move them around to wherever they'll get the most sunshine.

Avoid cold drafts or overly shaded areas so your plants soak up all the light they need to stay healthy and productive.

Water Sparingly

Watering can outdoors

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When watering your thyme, it's best to err on the side of caution. This herb is fairly drought tolerant and thrives with little water. Too much moisture leads to root rot. So, when you do water your thyme plants, do so sparingly.

A deep watering every 10 or 15 days should do the trick. Just make sure that excess water escapes through the drainage holes in order to prevent standing water.

Fertilize

Woman emptying kitchen waste on to a compost pile with layers of organic matter and soil

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Fertilizing your thyme is a great way to make sure it has the nutrients it needs to thrive. Adding organic matter like compost before planting helps create a nutrient-rich environment for your herb.

You can also add fertilizer and mulch directly to the soil in the early spring, which provides an additional boost of nutrients. When using fertilizer, do not overdo it. Too much fertilizer harms your plants!

Pro Tip: This herb adores nitrogen!

Temperature

Aerial shot of a bright green thyme plant

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Thyme loves nothing more than the warm sun of summer. This Mediterranean herb needs temperatures between 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

When planning your summer container thyme patch, think about where and when you'll be able to provide ideal conditions for thyme and other herbs to grow in abundance. If temperatures are going to exceed this range, have some shade available. And if it's a particularly hot season, water regularly so that your plants get all the hydration they need.

Thyme Flies When You're Having Fun!

Growing thyme in pots isn't intimidating or time-consuming. In fact, this project is a wonderful way for beginning gardeners to gain experience and confidence with a rewarding outcome. Plus, the end reward of having fresh thyme at your fingertips puts the cherry on top of this gardening adventure!

With these seven tips for successful thyme-growing, you're sure to create your very own flavorful herb garden in no time at all. So why wait? Get growing today. You won't regret it! And don't forget to leave a comment below and share with your family and friends!