Thyme
Thymus vulgaris
Thyme is a compact perennial herb valued for its strongly aromatic foliage and ability to thrive in sunny, relatively dry conditions. In humid subtropical gardens, excellent drainage, regular light pruning and good airflow are essential for long-term success.
Overview
At a Glance
Peak Planting Window
April to August
Seasonal Role
Mediterranean perennial herb
Difficulty
Moderate
Planting Method
Seed, cutting, division or transplant
First Harvest
10–12 weeks
Sun
Full sun
Water
Low
Heat Tolerance
Moderate
Humidity Tolerance
Moderate (good airflow recommended)
Family
Lamiaceae
Category
Herb
Planting Calendar
Monthly Planting Guide
Month-by-month suitability for coastal subtropical Australia.
Rationale
Why This Planting Window
Thyme establishes most reliably during the subtropical cool season, when lower humidity and mild temperatures support strong root development. Establishing plants before summer helps them tolerate warmer conditions, although excellent drainage and airflow remain essential during humid weather.
Reference
Growing Information
Lifecycle
Evergreen perennial
Ideal Soil Temperature
15–24°C
Germination
14–28 days
Transplant Ready
6–8 weeks
Soil
Light, fertile and very free-draining soil
Soil pH
6.0–8.0
Plant Spacing
25–30 cm
Row Spacing
35–45 cm
Frost Tolerance
Moderate
In the garden
Plant Care
Feeding
Incorporate a small amount of mature compost before planting. Feed sparingly because excessive fertiliser encourages soft growth with weaker flavour.
Watering Guidance
Water regularly while plants establish, then allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid persistent moisture around the crown.
Avoid Nearby
- None significant
Watch out for
Problems & Prevention
Common Pests
Aphids, spider mites and whitefly.
Common Diseases
Root rot, crown rot, powdery mildew and fungal leaf spot.
Common Mistakes
Overwatering, poor drainage, planting in heavy shade, excessive fertiliser, overcrowding and failing to prune older woody growth.
Picking
Harvest
First Harvest
10–12 weeks
Harvest Window
Harvest stems as required
Harvest Indicators
Harvest young leafy stems before flowering for the strongest flavour. Cut above healthy leaf growth and avoid cutting deeply into bare woody stems.
Standard
SGGS Details
Subtropical Gardener Growing Standard — profile metadata.
- SGGS Code
- HER013
- Version
- 1
- Confidence
- High
- Seasonal Role
- Mediterranean perennial herb
- Crop Champion Month
- May
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