Winter Thyme Seeds — Non-GMO, Heirloom, Open-Pollinated

Winter Thyme Seeds (Thymus vulgaris)

Grow a fragrant, low-mounding perennial herb from Non-GMO, heirloom, open-pollinated seeds for planting. Winter Thyme has aromatic green foliage, brownish stems, and purple flowers. Its leaves have an earthy aroma with citrus, mint, rosemary, lavender, and pine notes. The blooms add seasonal color and provide nectar for pollinators.

• Life cycle: Perennial; supplier-listed USDA Hardiness Zones 3–8
• Days to maturity: 95
• Days to germination: 20–30 at approximately 70°F
• Seed depth: Surface sow or barely cover
• Plant spacing: 6–8 inches; row spacing: 10–18 inches
• Plant size: Approximately 1–8 inches tall and 5–10 inches wide
• Light and soil: Full sun; loose, well-drained soil

How to Grow Winter Thyme

Start seeds indoors about 4 weeks before the planned outdoor planting date. Scatter seeds over a well-draining seed-starting mix and press them onto the surface or cover them only lightly. Mist gently and keep the mix lightly moist, never waterlogged. Provide bright light and warmth near 70°F for germination. Germination usually takes 20–30 days.

After seedlings emerge, thin to the strongest plants. When seedlings have developed roots and outdoor conditions are suitable, harden them off gradually, then transplant to a sunny site. Space plants 6–8 inches apart and rows 10–18 inches apart. Choose loose, well-drained soil and avoid standing water around the roots.

Once established, thyme generally needs little watering or fertilizer. In very cold climates, mulch around plants as needed. The supplier lists 95 days to maturity; actual timing varies with growing conditions.

Harvest and Landscape Use

Winter Thyme can be grown in herb gardens, containers, raised beds, garden plots, and greenhouses. Its low, mounding habit also suits ground-cover plantings in well-drained sites. Harvest lightly during the first 1–2 years while plants establish. After establishment, the supplier recommends harvesting no more than one-third of the plant at a time, up to three times per year. Leaves may be dried.

Seeds are sold for planting.