Thyme

Growing Guide

One of the most useful kitchen herbs for stews, stuffings and bouquet garni. This aromatic, evergreen thyme will grow almost anywhere in containers, rock gardens, borders, and even cracks in paving. Ideal for creating low, matt forming groundcover that will attract bees to the tiny, pink blooms.

Sow seeds indoors 0.5cm deep, in February and March in small trays of compost and lightly cover the seeds with a sprinkling of compost. Prick out seedlings individually to 9cm pots, once large enough to handle. Grow on in cooler conditions , then gradually harden off plants in a cold frame before planting out after risk of frost has passed. Transplant to final positions 30cm apart or into larger containers, or grow a few in pots on a light windowsill all year round.

Alternatively sow direct outside in April and May into shallow seed drills. Direct sown seedlings can be thinned to 15cm apart then lifted and transplanted to final positions once large enough to handle.

Once established, thyme is reasonably drought tolerant and requires little attention. After flowering, cut back thyme plants to maintain compact bushy growth.

TOP TIPS

Thyme tea has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for cough and respiratory ailments. It is packed with powerful compounds that can help soothe throat irritation, relieve coughing, and aid in clearing mucus. Making thyme tea for cough is a straightforward process that you can easily do at home. Here’s a simple thyme tea and some additional tips for brewing and steeping thyme:

1. Place dried thyme leaves or fresh thyme sprigs in a tea infuser or a heatproof bowl.
2. Pour boiling water over the thyme.
3. Cover the bowl or infuser and let the thyme steep for 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain the tea to remove the thyme leaves or sprigs.
5. Your thyme tea is ready to be enjoyed.