CREEPING THYME SEEDS

Thymus serpyllum

An easily grown spreading thyme that is appropriate for the awkward space between stepping stones and for steep, rocky hillsides that you'd rather not mow. Plants grow to just 4" tall. The flowers of T. serpyllum are a pretty shade of pink and attract all manner of pollinating insects. Plant along paths in the vegetable garden. It can substitute for culinary thyme (T. vulgaris) in a pinch, although the flavor is much more mild.

“Wild Thyme clothes many a heath and hillock, in dry or gravelly countries, with its purple blossoms during the summer months. Its entangled branches form an elastic turf, and the bruised leaves when trodden upon diffuse a warm aromatic odour. Bees frequent the flowers in great numbers. The flavour of mutton is supposed to be improved by the sheep feeding on this plant." - James Sowerby, 1802

Sprinkle these seeds onto a 72 cell flat of moist soil. Press seeds into the surface, mist, and cover with plastic. Place in a warm bright location, but not in direct sun. Seeds will usually germinate within two weeks. Uncover promptly and water only from the bottom of the tray. Do not overwater! Allowing seedlings to dry out a bit between watering will encourage root growth. Thin seedlings to no more than around 3 per cell. Grow on until threatening to become root-bound. Transplant into the desired location around the last spring frost or in autumn, one plant per square foot or so (closer is fine, at least temporarily). Water regularly until established, after which this species requires virtually no care. Sheering of the spent blooms may provoke a repeat display.

Creeping Thyme can tolerate some mowing and light foot traffic. It will spread politely over time.

Packet contains around 1000 seeds.