17.01.2025

Thyme Care: The Gardeners’ Trick for a Lush and Healthy Plant

By Lesia

Thyme is a resilient and aromatic herb that thrives in the right conditions. However, improper watering is a common reason for it to dry out or wither. Here’s how gardeners keep thyme strong, lush, and thriving:


Why Thyme Dries Out

  1. Overwatering: Thyme hates soggy soil and will struggle if its roots are constantly wet.
  2. Underwatering: While thyme is drought-tolerant, neglecting it for too long can cause it to dry out.
  3. Poor Drainage: Soil that doesn’t drain well can suffocate roots, leading to rot.

The Gardeners’ Trick

  1. Water Sparingly: Thyme prefers dry, well-drained soil.
    • Water only when the top inch of soil feels completely dry.
    • In hot climates, this may mean watering once or twice a week.
  2. Morning Watering:
    • Water thyme early in the morning to allow excess moisture to evaporate during the day.
    • Avoid watering late in the evening, as dampness overnight encourages fungal growth.
  3. Bottom Watering Method:
    • Place the thyme pot in a shallow tray of water.
    • Allow the roots to soak up water for 10–15 minutes, then remove and let excess water drain.
  4. Mulch Wisely:
    • Add a thin layer of gravel or sand on the soil surface to retain the right level of moisture while preventing fungal issues.

Other Tips for Lush Thyme

  1. Sunlight: Thyme needs at least 6–8 hours of full sun daily. Insufficient sunlight weakens the plant.
  2. Pruning: Trim thyme regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from becoming woody.
  3. Soil: Ensure the soil is sandy or gritty, as thyme thrives in poor, well-drained soils.
  4. Container Care: If in a pot, ensure it has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

By watering thyme sparingly and following these tips, your plant will stay strong, vibrant, and beautifully lush! 🌱