03.
Cultivation & Harvesting
considerations for growing and harvesting thyme
climate
Thyme grows on dry slopes, rocks, rock walls, and in cultivated gardens in a sunny location.
soil
Thyme is often found on clay or limestone soils. It succeeds in dry
soils, poor soils and tolerates drought once it is established. Plants can
be grown on old walls.
growing
This hardy herb can be propagated from either seed, cuttings, and/or root divisions.
For best results, sow seeds indoors keeping the temperature around 70°F for germination.
For propagation via cuttings, place snipped stem pieces with new growth in wet sand. In two weeks roots should appear. Root division works best in the spring. Be sure to
uproot a plant carefully to preserve as
much of its root oil as possible. Divide the root system—in half or thirds—and replant
the divisions a foot apart in moist soil.
harvesting
Leaves and flowers may be harvested just before the plants flower, dry for later use.
preserving
Store dried thyme and powdered thyme in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.