![]() Avoid planting during the heat of the summer, when it’s difficult for plants to become established. In spring, after the threat of frost has passed, or in early fall. ![]() Common thyme ( Thymus vulgaris) is a better choice for culinary purposes. Special attributes:Īlthough both the flowers and leaves are edible, they are generally not used for cooking because the fragrance and flavor are inconsistent. Though it can spread quickly once established, creeping thyme is not invasive and easy to manage. The stems take root where they come in contact with the soil, with new shoots forming at the point where rooting occurs. Method of spreading:īy trailing stems that sprawl out horizontally from a central root system. Often semi-evergreen or evergreen in areas with mild winters. May be dark green, olive green, or gray-green, depending on the cultivar. Slightly hairy and elliptical, growing to 1/4 inch in length. Usually in shades of pink or purple, although some cultivars have red or white blooms. Star- or bell-shaped, measuring about 1/8 inch across. However, they should flower prolifically the following spring. Plants may not flower during their first growing season because they will be focusing all their energy on root development. ![]() Late spring to early summer, with the blooms lasting for 3 to 4 weeks. Plants may be slightly taller when in bloom. On this page: Basics | Planting | Care | Pictures | Landscaping IdeasĬreeping thyme, mother of thyme, wild thyme Plant type:ġ to 4 inches tall, spreading up to 18 inches. As a bonus, creeping thyme creates a colorful floral carpet in late spring, when it bursts into a profusion of dainty pink or purple flowers. Not only does this drought-tolerant perennial require much less water than traditional turf grass, it also spreads quickly to fill in bare spots. If you’ve only thought of thyme as a plant for the herb garden, you may be surprised to discover that there are also several creeping varieties valued more for their ornamental attributes than their culinary qualities.įorming a dense, ground-hugging mat of tiny evergreen leaves, creeping thyme is ideal for use as a foot-friendly groundcover to fill gaps between stepping stones and patio pavers, where the foliage will release its heady herbal scent whenever you tiptoe through it.īecause of its ability to withstand moderate foot traffic, creeping thyme can also be used as an easy-care lawn substitute, especially on sunny hillsides and slopes. Of the newspaper or cardboard will have decomposed.Red creeping thyme. The following year, the grass will be dead, and much You may further weight down the papers with rocks, pavers, or bricks. Water the mulch well and push the paper downĪgainst the grass to speed up the process. Smothering the grass with newspaper or cardboard and.Using a sod cutter to cut the turf into sections before removing it.Of work, and you must dig deep to remove all roots, or more grass may just You to start growing your creeping thyme in as little as three days, depending These sprays can damage entire ecosystems. Herbicide, like Roundup, though this is not the most eco-friendly option, as Spraying the whole thing with a broad-spectrum.Grows 2 to 3 inches tall with a 12- to 18-inch spread. Pink chintz: A drought-tolerant dwarfĬultivar, pink chintz ( Thymus serpyllum 'Pink Chintz') has salmon-pink flowers and blue-green leaves.It is commonly placedīetween pavers, beside walkways, or near edging. Where other creeping thyme cultivars may grow too large. Elfin thyme: While not the best optionįor an entire lawn, Elfin thyme ( Thymus serpyllum 'Elfin') is a small, slow-growing species that's a good choice for areas.This is one creeping thyme species that doesn't have fragrant flowers and is not suitable for culinary use. Is easily identifiable through its gray-green fuzzy leaves and pale pinkįlowers. Wooly thyme ( Thymus pseudolanuginosos) has a moderate growth rate and tolerates more foot traffic than other species. ![]()
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