What is the downside of creeping thyme?
What Are the Downsides of Creeping Thyme? Thyme lawns are more expensive than grass and turf lawns and may require more labor to prepare and establish the ground. Though it can spread quickly once established, creeping thyme is not invasive and easy to manage.Most thyme plants are perennial in moderate climates. While some thyme species are upright and shrub-like, creeping types are low-growing with a vine-like habit and can be a grass alternative that doesn’t require mowing (it will also choke out weeds).Creeping thyme is a woody perennial ground cover. LIMITATIONS: Creeping thyme offers some moderate weed suppression.Creeping pink thyme, with almost an inch of stem between its sets of leaves, grows much more quickly than, say, a pink chintz thyme or a wooly thyme whose leaves are very close together. The increased stem segment also provides a greater rooting zone for the thyme allowing it to spread faster.Any branches that root themselves will continue to live another 3-5 years. So creeping thyme will always end up patchy. Always best to plant many different species for lawn replacement , not just one.
What not to plant with creeping thyme?
Chives, cilantro, and basil are not ideal companion plants for thyme because they have different growing requirements and may compete for the same nutrients in the soil. Although a variety of herbs (and even flowers, like marigolds and nasturtiums) can often be planted together, certain kinds like parsley, cilantro, tarragon, basil and chives prefer a more moist soil, and should not be planted directly with thyme.Chives, cilantro, and basil are not ideal companion plants for thyme because they have different growing requirements and may compete for the same nutrients in the soil.It’s easy to grow creeping thyme herb from seed. Start by sowing the seeds indoors about 8 weeks before the last spring frost. Scatter over a seed-starting mix, lightly pressing into the surface as the seeds need light to germinate. Keep the mix consistently moist and provide plenty of light.Like most herbs, thyme does best in full sun, and it tolerates drought well. It can be planted by seed in either late fall or early spring. Make sure to plant in good-draining soil.
How long does it take for red creeping thyme to spread?
Creeping Thyme spreads gradually and typically takes one to two growing seasons to form a dense mat, depending on growing conditions, spacing, and climate. Regular watering during establishment can speed up growth. Overwintering: In temperate climates, creeping thyme will usually remain evergreen throughout the winter. In regions where winters are cold, plants may lose their foliage, but it will quickly grow back the following spring.Creeping thyme takes a while to become established, and the plants usually don’t grow much during their first year. However, established plants can spread quickly and stretch 12 to 18 inches wide by their third year.Planting in the ground – choose a warm, sunny planting location in light, well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or stays quite damp, especially in winter, then plant thyme in a container orraised bedinstead, where drainage will be better.If you are late starting your creeping thyme seeds, you can continue to sow them indoors throughout the summer as long as they are ready for transplant outside at least 8-10 weeks before the first fall frost in your area.Prune back creeping thyme stems in the early spring to prepare the plant for the growing season ahead. Prune again after the flowers die back, usually by the end of summer. In late fall, after the first frost, prune the leggiest, woodiest stems by half. This pruning encourages vigorous, young growth in the spring.
Where is the best place to plant red creeping thyme?
Planting. Location: Red Creeping Thyme thrives in full sun and well-drained areas such as rock gardens, paths, slopes, or gravel beds. Choose a site with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Soil: Prefers sandy or rocky soils with a neutral to alkaline pH (6. Whether it’s Wooly, Red, or Lemon, thyme (Thymus) is an amazing ground cover for suppressing weeds. It grows densely, like a thick mat, crowding out unwanted weeds as it spreads. It’s beautiful, too! The foliage comes in a variety of textures and colors, plus, it’s fragrant to the touch.Aesthetic and Practical Advantages of Red Creeping Thyme This plant helps prevent soil erosion, maintains ground stability, and reduces the need for regular watering. Its thick growth also acts as a natural weed suppressant, which helps keep landscapes tidy without the need for chemical herbicides.Thyme, including red creeping thyme possesses excellent mosquito-repelling properties. The secret is to crush the leaves to release the volatile oils. You can simply place crushed stems around outdoor seating areas or rub the leaves on skin or clothing.
Does red creeping thyme come back every year?
Creeping Thyme is a perennial herb which will over-winter well in zones 4-9. Direct sow seeds outdoors in late spring when temperatures are consistently in the high 60’s or above. Known as Wild Thyme or Mother of Thyme, Creeping Thyme is a brilliant evergreen perennial that creeps its way through garden borders, rock gardens and stone walls. Growing just 2 to 4 tall with a lemony fragrance, it has slightly hairy, deep green leaves through which tiny pinkish to pale purple flowers bloom.Prune back creeping thyme stems in the early spring to prepare the plant for the growing season ahead. Prune again after the flowers die back, usually by the end of summer. In late fall, after the first frost, prune the leggiest, woodiest stems by half. This pruning encourages vigorous, young growth in the spring.As its name implies, creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) will creep along your landscape and prevent weeds from popping up.
Can you just sprinkle creeping thyme?
Sprinkling seed of creeping thyme on the ground is rarely successful, although raising plants from seed in pots or trays under cover is a good way to produce a large quantity of plants. The plant needs to accumulate to your garden and being outside 24/7, also Thyme likes to get dry between watering. You might try partially closing the sprinkler head to allow the soil to dry a bit more between watering. Thyme is slower growing, more finicky about water, and sensitive to transplanting.Thyme is very shallowly rooted and can dry out quickly, especially when the little plants are first transplanted. Thymes should remain moist but not soggy for best growth. Over head sprinklers, drip or hand watering can be used, as long as the entire area receives water allowing the stems to root in moist soil.