creeping thyme | Pro tips for planting, uses and types

Table of Contents

Introduction

Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) is an essential addition to any garden. This perennial herb, native to Europe, is highly valued for its versatility, durability, and beauty. Known for its low-growing habit, creeping thyme forms a dense mat that serves as an excellent groundcover. It is especially favored for its ability to thrive in poor soil conditions, its resistance to drought, and its ability to withstand foot traffic.

Types of Creeping Thyme

Creeping thyme comes in various varieties, each offering unique characteristics in terms of color, size, and blooming patterns. Below are some of the most popular types:

Red Creeping Thyme (Thymus praecox ‘Coccineus’): This variety is distinguished by its vibrant red flowers, which appear in early summer. It forms a lush, green mat that turns into a stunning sea of red during blooming.
Elfin Thyme (Thymus serpyllum ‘Elfin’): Known for its extremely low growth habit, this variety stays under 2 inches tall. It has tiny leaves and delicate, light purple flowers, making it ideal for rock gardens and between stepping stones.
White Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum ‘Albus’): This type produces pure white flowers and is excellent for brightening up darker areas of the garden. It also has a delightful fragrance.
Woolly Thyme (Thymus pseudolanuginosus): With its soft, woolly foliage, this variety is perfect for adding texture to your garden. It produces pink or lavender flowers and can be used in areas where foot traffic is minimal.

Planting and Growing Creeping Thyme

Creeping thyme is relatively easy to plant and care for, making it a favorite among gardeners of all skill levels. Below are the steps to ensure successful planting and growth:

Selecting the Right Location: Creeping thyme thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate partial shade, but flowering will be less prolific. The ideal location should have well-drained soil, as thyme is prone to root rot in soggy conditions.
Soil Preparation: While creeping thyme can grow in poor soils, it performs best in sandy or loamy soils with a pH level between 6.0 and 8.0. Before planting, loosen the soil to a depth of about 6 inches and incorporate compost or sand to improve drainage if necessary.
Planting Creeping Thyme: Creeping thyme can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or divisions. Seeds should be sown in the spring after the last frost, lightly pressed into the soil, and kept moist until germination. When planting cuttings or divisions, space the plants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
Watering and Mulching: During the first few weeks after planting, water creeping thyme regularly to help establish strong roots. Once established, thyme is drought-tolerant and only needs occasional watering. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid covering the foliage, as this can lead to disease.
Pruning and Maintenance: To keep creeping thyme looking its best, prune it back in the spring to remove any dead or damaged growth. This will encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too woody. After flowering, a light trim can also promote a second flush of blooms.

Uses of Creeping Thyme in Landscaping

Creeping thyme is not only a practical groundcover but also an ornamental plant that adds beauty and functionality to various garden settings. Here are some creative ways to use creeping thyme in your landscape:

Groundcover for Pathways Due to its low growth and resilience to foot traffic, creeping thyme is ideal for planting between stepping stones or along garden paths. Its fragrant foliage releases a pleasant scent when stepped on, making it a delightful addition to walkways.
Rock Gardens and Slopes Creeping thyme’s ability to thrive in poor, rocky soils makes it an excellent choice for rock gardens and sloped areas. It will spread over rocks and crevices, softening the harsh edges and creating a lush, green carpet that’s visually appealing.
Edging for Garden Beds Use creeping thyme as a border plant along garden beds or borders. Its compact growth habit helps define edges and prevents soil erosion, while its colorful blooms add a decorative touch.
Pollinator-Friendly Gardens The flowers of creeping thyme are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Planting thyme in your garden will not only enhance its beauty but also contribute to the health of the local ecosystem.

Culinary and Medicinal Uses

While creeping thyme is primarily grown for ornamental purposes, it also has culinary and medicinal applications:

Culinary Uses Though not as commonly used as common thyme (Thymus vulgaris), creeping thyme can be harvested for its leaves, which are aromatic and flavorful. The leaves can be used fresh or dried in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, marinades, and herbal teas.
Medicinal Properties Creeping thyme has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties. It contains compounds such as thymol and carvacrol, which have antiseptic and antifungal properties. Herbalists often use thyme in remedies for respiratory issues, digestive problems, and skin conditions.

Pest and Disease Management

Creeping thyme is generally resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance plant. However, it can occasionally be affected by:

Root Rot Root rot is a common problem in poorly drained soils. To prevent this, ensure the soil is well-drained, avoid overwatering, and refrain from mulching too closely to the plant.
Aphids and Spider Mites Aphids and spider mites may occasionally infest creeping thyme. These pests can be controlled with a strong spray of water or by using insecticidal soap. Encouraging beneficial insects such as ladybugs can also help keep pest populations in check.
Fungal Diseases Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew can occur in humid conditions. To reduce the risk, plant thyme in an area with good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove any affected leaves promptly.

Conclusion

Creeping thyme is an invaluable addition to any garden, offering a blend of beauty, resilience, and functionality. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of landscaping applications, from groundcovers to rock gardens. With proper care, this hardy perennial will thrive for years, providing both visual appeal and practical benefits to your garden.