The Well-Tended Perennial Garden The Essential Guide to Planting and Pruning Techniques, Third Edition

Thymus. Thyme’s tendency to

self-sow can be a benefit in the

garden or landscape,

particularly among

stepping-stones.

Thymus

thyme

lamiaceae

Small pink or purple flower spikes; tiny,

scented, oblong leaves

3–12 in. high; 12–18 in. wide

Full sun

Blooms June–July

Zones 5–8

pruning Shearing off old flower

stems on thyme before seed set will

prevent reseeding, but allowing some

seeding can be effective in the

perennial garden. The tips of the

plants are often damaged over the

winter. Shear off dead branches to new

growth in the early spring. Several

distinct forms of thyme exist. Some

are subshrubs and some are

mat-forming ground covers. The

larger, more upright-growing shrub

forms may get leggy and woody with

age. Shear down to about 6 in. above

the ground and shape in the spring

every 3 years or so to rejuvenate.

Heavy pruning should be completed

by late August so that plants have time

to harden for the winter. Plants remain

evergreen; do not prune for the winter.

other maintenance Well-

draining soil is necessary to prevent

rot. Tolerates low fertility and sandy,

dry soil. Divide if plants die out in the

center.