When you think of ground cover plants, creeping thyme is an ideal choice. This low-growing, fragrant herb is a pleasure to have in your garden, and it requires minimal maintenance. A member of the Lamiaceae family, it has a delicate, mat-forming habit, making it perfect for covering large areas of soil. Here’s everything you need to know about growing creeping thyme.
Types of Creeping Thyme
The most popular type of creeping thyme is Thymus serpyllum, which is also known as wild thyme. This variety has a strong, pleasant scent and its leaves are edible. Other types of creeping thyme include Thymus pulegioides, which is commonly known as lemon thyme, and Thymus praecox, which is also known as wooly thyme.
Caring for Creeping Thyme
When it comes to caring for creeping thyme, the most important thing to remember is that it is a low-maintenance plant. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil, but it is highly tolerant of drought and heat. It is also fairly resilient and can tolerate some foot traffic.
Propagating Creeping Thyme
The easiest way to propagate creeping thyme is by division. The best time to do this is in the fall or early spring. You can also propagate it from stem cuttings. Take a cutting from a stem that has two to three sets of leaves. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and then plant it in a pot filled with potting mix.
Pest and Disease Control
Creeping thyme is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few common problems that can occur. Aphids and mites can sometimes be a problem, as can powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, it is important to ensure that your plants are getting enough light and air circulation.
Harvesting Creeping Thyme
The best time to harvest creeping thyme is in the morning after the dew has evaporated. Cut the stems just above a node. The stems can be used fresh or dried for later use.
Using Creeping Thyme
Creeping thyme is often used in the kitchen as a seasoning herb. It is also used in cosmetics and perfumes. The leaves can be steeped in tea to make a fragrant and flavorful beverage.
Conclusion
Creeping thyme is a low-maintenance, fragrant herb that is perfect for ground cover. It is relatively easy to care for and propagate, and it can be used in the kitchen, cosmetics, and perfumes. With a little bit of knowledge and TLC, you can easily grow creeping thyme in your garden.
