Elfin Thyme
Elfin Thyme (Thymus serpyllum 'Elfin') is an evergreen, perennial herb with interesting small, dark green foliage. It has tiny, pinkish-white flowers that bloom in summer. This herb makes an excellent groundcover in rock gardens, and can also be used as an edging plant, or as an edging along pathways and walkways. It can also be grown in containers, and it is relatively low-maintenance and hardy.
Elfin Thyme should be kept well-drained and should be watered sparingly. During the growing season, water the plant regularly, but make sure to not let the soil become soggy or waterlogged. During the winter months, only water the plant occasionally, only when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Elfin Thyme prefers full sun, but it can tolerate some light shade. It thrives in hot weather and should be placed in areas of the garden that get 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Avoid planting in areas that are too shady, as too little sunlight can cause the plant to become leggy and spindly.
Elfin Thyme should be grown in temperatures between 40-85°F (4.5-29.5°C). Temperatures below this range may cause the plant to become stressed and may stunt its growth. In warm climates, you can place the plant in a location that is slightly shaded during the hottest months of the year.
Elfin Thyme prefers average room humidity. It should not be exposed to drafts or extremely dry air. During winter months, the plant may need some extra humidity; a humidifier can help. Placing a humidifier in the same room as the plant will help it to stay healthy.
Elfin Thyme prefers a soil that is slightly acidic and well-draining, with good aeration. The ideal soil contains equal parts loam, peat, and perlite, or a mix of equal parts loam and sharp sand. You can also use a commercial potting mix designed for herbs and vegetables.
Elfin Thyme should be fertilized once every two weeks during the growing season, with a balanced, liquid fertilizer. During the winter months, do not fertilize the plant. You can also feed the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in late spring, or you can use an organic fertilizer such as fish emulsion.
Elfin Thyme can be affected by several pests, such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Spider mites can be recognized by the fine webs it creates on the undersides of the leaves. They suck the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to become discolored and distorted. Aphids can also be recognized by their tiny size and whitish-green color. They tend to gather on the undersides of leaves, and they suck the sap of the plant. Mealybugs are tiny white insects that attack the plant and suck its sap. To get rid of these pests, you can use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Apply these products to the foliage of the plant and this should help to get rid of the pests.
Elfin Thyme usually does not need to be repotted, as it prefers to be slightly root-bound. However, if the potting soil begins to break down, then it may need to be repotted. When repotting, use a fresh potting mix and larger pot to give your plant more room to grow.
Elfin Thyme does not need to be pruned, but you can remove any dead foliage. To keep the plant from becoming leggy, you can trim back long stems. This will also encourage bushier growth.
Mulching plants with organic matter, such as compost or bark chips, can help retain moisture in the soil and reduce weeds. Make sure to not mulch too deeply, as this can cause rot.
Elfin Thyme can be easily propagated from cuttings. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from the top and bottom of the stem and remove the lower leaves. Place the cuttings in moist soil or a potting mix and keep in a warm room that receives indirect sunlight. In about 4-6 weeks you should start to see the roots forming and the plant beginning to grow. You can then transplant the cuttings into individual pots.
This herb does not require any support, but you can add a stake or trellis in order to keep it upright.
Elfin Thyme does not require a rest period, but it can be beneficial to give the plant a rest in late winter or early spring. During this time, water less frequently and do not fertilize.
Elfin Thyme is not toxic to pets.
Lemon Thyme
Lemon Thyme (Thymus citriodorus) is an evergreen herb with prolific growth habits. Each branch is covered in alternating pointed, toothed, deep green...
Woolly Thyme
Woolly Thyme (Thymus pseudolanuginosus) is a species of flowering plants native to Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa, and is commonly found growing wi...