Holly's Homestead — Perennial Herb
Thyme
Thymus vulgaris · Mint family
DIFFICULTY Easy
TYPE Evergreen perennial shrub
MATURITY Usable from 8–10 weeks
TYPE Evergreen perennial shrub
MATURITY Usable from 8–10 weeks
Sun
Full sun
Water
Low, drought-tolerant once established
Soil pH
6.0–8.0
Spacing
30–40cm
Depth
as per pot
01Thrives on neglect
Thyme does best in lean, free-draining soil with minimal watering once established — rich soil and too much water actually weaken its flavour and vigour.
02Planting
Method
Plant from a nursery pot, or strike cuttings.
Soil
Free-draining, lean — avoid rich, heavily fed soil.
Timing
Plant in spring or autumn.
Planting timing varies significantly by Australian climate zone. Set your zone above (or use the Find My Climate Zone tool) for guidance tailored to your own area.
03Growing care
- Water sparingly once established.
- Trim after flowering to keep a compact, bushy shape.
- Avoid mulch touching the woody base.
- Divide or replace plants every few years as they get woody.
04Problems
- Root rot — from overwatering or poor drainage.
- Woody, sparse growth — from lack of trimming; prune regularly.
- Powdery mildew — poor airflow; space plants well.
- Few other issues — a hardy, low-maintenance herb.
05Harvest & storage
Signs
Usable year-round once established.
Method
Snip sprigs as needed.
Curing
Air-dry hanging in small bunches.
Storage
Fresh in the fridge 1–2 weeks; dried, airtight for a year or more.
Preserving
See Dehydrating (drying woody herbs for storage) for ways to keep a harvest surplus.
06Companions & rotation
Plant nearby
CabbageTomatoAvoid nearby
Basil (different water needs)Rotation note
Not applicable — long-lived shrub.
