Thyme
Thymus vulgaris
Also known asGarden thyme · Common thyme · English thyme · Thym
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 4–9 (winter low around -34°C)
- Frost
- very hardy (survives deep cold)
- Season
- warm (summer, frost-sensitive)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expanded clay pebbles (LECA) | neutral / inert | low | high |
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0.8 |
| vegetative | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1.7 |
Aquaponics suitability
Not recommended
Fish waste alone doesn't supply enough of what this crop demands. Grows in hybrid systems with supplemental dosing, but expect active management.
Care notes
An easy, long-lived perennial herb. Container (10 L) with very well-drained media. EC 1.0-1.5 mS/cm (very light feeder; rich conditions produce lush but weakly aromatic growth). pH 6.5-8.0 (tolerates alkaline). Temperature: 10–28°C (Mediterranean; cold-hardy to zone 4). Full sun (DLI 16-25 mol/m2/day). Growth is slow. Harvest by cutting stem tips; the plant branches when pruned. Never cut into bare, leafless wood; always leave green growth below the cut. For drying: strip tiny leaves from stems after drying whole sprigs. Dried thyme retains flavor for 12+ months. Propagation by stem cuttings, division, or seed (seed is viable but slow). Overwatering kills thyme faster than any other factor. Group with rosemary, sage, and oregano for compatible Mediterranean conditions. A single thyme plant provides enough herb for a household indefinitely.