When to Plant Thyme Seeds

Sow thyme seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost of the season. Transplant into the garden after risk of frost has passed.

Where to Plant Thyme Seeds

Plant thyme in dry, well-draining soil exposed to full sun (six to eight hours of sun per day). Thyme thrives in sandy, rocky, or other similarly loose soil compositions. Do not allow thyme to exist in wet soils, as it is prone to rot. Thyme is commonly planted on the outside of garden beds to ward off pests that would prey on other garden vegetables.

How to Plant Thyme Seeds

Thyme seeds require light to germinate, so be careful not to cover them when planting. Learn more about germination light requirements here.

Sow on the surface of the soil indoors and lightly cover but do not bury the seed. Once seedlings are three to six inches tall, transplant into the garden 12 to 24 inches apart to allow room to grow.

How to Harvest Thyme

In the morning, right before flowering, cut four to six inches of herbaceous stalks, leaving woody parts behind. Do not wash harvested thyme, instead shake dry in order to preserve the oils. Harvested stems can be hung in a dry, dark, and cool place such as a garage over one to two weeks. Thyme leaves can be harvested from the stalks by pinching the end of the stem and moving up the stalk. Store leaves in a dry, dark, and cool place in a container to dry over a few days.