How to grow thyme

Thyme cultivation tips

temperature

A warm environment is conducive to the vigorous growth of thyme, and the suitable temperature is about 20-25℃.

Thyme is very cold-resistant, but is greatly affected by high temperature and high humidity climates, which can significantly inhibit the normal growth of the plant and easily cause the plant to rot.

It is best to grow it in a shaded place. In summer, special attention should be paid to ensuring a cool environment. Specific cooling measures include spraying water around the plants and increasing ventilation.

illumination

Sufficient light is required during the growing period. If the requirement is not met, the plant may grow too tall.

In summer and autumn when there is direct sunlight, timely shading should be carried out to prevent the branches and leaves from being burned by the strong sunlight.

Watering

The slightly fleshy leaf structure makes thyme relatively drought-tolerant, but less resistant to waterlogging.

Excessively moist potting soil will affect the normal growth of the plant's roots and branches and leaves, reduce the content of plant essential oils, and in severe cases will cause root rot and plant death.

Do not water unless the soil in the pot is dry. When watering, water thoroughly and try to keep the soil slightly dry instead of making it too wet.

Pay special attention to clearing accumulated water in the pot during the rainy season; the plant's water requirement is the lowest in winter, so the potting soil should be kept dry at this time.

Fertilization

In winter, the growth of plants slows down and very little fertilizer is needed.

In spring and autumn, the plant enters its peak growth period and a thin layer of fertilizer should be applied every half a month.

Some varieties have stripes on their leaves, and applying phosphorus-potassium compound fertilizer can make the stripes more vivid.

Stop fertilizing in summer. Excessive fertilization during the weak growth period of the plants in summer can easily cause the roots to rot and die.

prune

The seedlings can be pinched to promote branching and grow more lushly.

Regular pruning can help thyme form a nice plant shape, and it is also good for ventilation and light transmission inside the plant.

When pruning, you should pay attention to the strength and degree. Do not cut too low to damage the woody part, which will affect the sprouting of new buds.

Planting and Repotting

Repotting is usually required every two years or so.

Alkaline soil or neutral soil with good drainage is preferred.

The substrate for potted plants can be prepared with materials such as leaf mold and peat soil. Particles such as perlite and coarse sand can be added to promote drainage of the potting soil and form a drainage layer at the bottom of the pot.