Creeping Thyme’s scientific name is thymus serpyllum belonging to the mint family. Originating from Europe and South Africa it’s a small, attractive, aromatic, low-growing herb. It is often used as a cover like a mat due to its ability to grow longer with a height of only two to three inches. Its leaves give a soothing fragrance when crushed with small beautiful pink, white, and purple flowers.
If you wish to change the look of your balcony, change the grass of your garden with an alternative it will serve as a ground mat and you must learn how to grow it with our guide. Its best feature is that it would not require any mowing.
History
Some historians debated on the Roots of the name thymus.
- Some historians believe that it comes from the Latin word thymus which means smoke, which can be related as this herb is popularly known for its scent.
- But many also believe its root to be from the Greek word, thymos meaning courage the idea being that in medieval ages women used to sew a thyme on the scarves which they were given to their knights signifying them to be brave in the war.
- Some believed it came from thyo, a Greek word meaning sacrifice which can be reinforced by the idea that this shrub is used in perfumes the holy temples.
Characteristics
- Low-growing trailing species
- Groundmat
- Dense, evergreen
- Woody as it ages
- Soft blue-green leaves which are small and ovate
- Leaves grow in opposite pairs
- in summer small beautiful flowers start to show up
- in bloom, it gets converted into a carpet of flowers
- attracts honey bees
How to plant creeping thyme seeds?
After estimating the last frost date from the previous years meaning the last day for the freezing weather, start by sowing them indoors in the winters before ten to eight weeks of the expected frost.
For them to be strong and well rooted plant them with adequate spacing between them for their roots to spread out. At 60 degrees plant can go in the ground when no more threats of frost exist.
Give attention to the following things-
1. Light
It loves good sunlight in fact as you know it blooms beautifully in it. On average, it would require at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
2. Water
They are. drought tolerant hence does not require watering as most of the plants do. Only initially you may require to water them once or twice a week. Limit watering as it can perfectly go days without it.
3. Soil
A loamy well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH is the most accurate to grow this plant as there is a risk of developing root rot. Use coarse sand when planting in the ground and per tile if in a container like a pot.
4. Temperature and Humidity
It is heat and frost-tolerant to an extent and can retain its foliage till mild winters, In winters a thick layer of mulch can be used at the base to improve root insulation.
5. Fertilisation
Doesn’t require any fertilizers rich in nitrogen a slow-release mild fertiliser or fish fertilizer will provide the needed nutrients.
Maintenance
- It’s easy to maintain but this doesn’t mean it should go unnoticed especially If you wish to retain the foliage for a longer duration
- Pruning – trim the plant in early spring or late fall
- Don’t prune too hard or in late spring as you may reach the woods or may cut off the flowering buds
- If using container, look for a one who has drainage holes with well-drained soil and is kept in a sunny spot.
Some common problems
1. Lack of flowers
Remain patient if flowering doesn’t happen in the first year, if sunlight is not sufficient this problem could persist.
2. Pests
Some common pests which can be removed by a steady stream of water.
- Aphids: attack newer growth, deprive them of water and minerals leaving them damaged, easy to spot.
- Spider mites: Hide on the back of the leaves, decline the overall plant health leading to death, difficult to spot.
3. Diseases
Root rot: plant looks droopy with yellow leaves, caused due to overwatering especially in cooler months as water takes more time to drain, roots are exposed to water for a longer period.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs):-
Q1 Is creeping thyme or red creeping thyme invasive?
Ans. No, as it does not delf seed aggressively and the growth is slow. It is manageable and can easily be cut down.
Q2. Is it deer resistant and do deer eat creeping thyme?
Ans.Yes, its fragrance and woody texture keep deer away from them. They won’t eat creeping thyme as they do with other small herbs.
Q3. Is it safe for cats and dogs?
Ans. Yes, it is pet friendly however consumption in large quantities of any plant could cause mild digestive upset for pets hence they should be monitored.
Q4. Where to buy creeping thyme?
Ans. As it is common for its ornamental use it is available in most of the nurseries, other options could be online retailers.
Q5. will creeping thyme choke out gras?
Ans. Yes it is possible under certain condition, to prevent this from happening focus on regular maintenance. Other factors affecting can be type of grass.