Lemon Thyme

Water when the soil feels dry to the touch then let drain. If the soil is allowed to dry out completely, the plant will struggle and begin to look barren. Overwatering, however, can cause root rot. Check the soil every 3-4 days, allowing the top inch to dry out before re-watering.

Lemon thyme prefers full sun to partial shade and will do best in places where it receives at least 6 hours of full sun each day. Bright, indirect light is also suitable.

This perennial thyme prefers temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C – 27°C) and prefers relative humidity between 40 and 50 percent. While this herb can survive temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C) or as high as 95°F (35°C), it won’t thrive in these extreme temperatures.

Lemon thyme prefers a humid environment and will struggle with too little humidity. This herb might require frequent misting with a pump spray bottle to raise the relative humidity into a comfortable range or may need to be placed near a humidifier or in an area with increased moisture.

Lemon thyme prefers well-draining soil, amended with organic matter. Use a potting soil formulated for herbs or a mix of equal parts peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand. If you’re planting in a garden, an herb mix or sandy loam is preferable.

Thyme should not need fertilization, but if the growth becomes sluggish and leaves are not as green as usual, you can add some light liquid fertilizer in spring and summer. Fertilizers that are higher in nitrogen will help promote robust leaf growth and production while ones rich in potassium will also produce better blooms. Feed periodically, following the application rates indicated on the packaging, and discontinue in late-summer.

Lemon thyme is not particularly susceptible to pests but watch for aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. When introduced, these pests are best removed by hand or with a rag soaked in lukewarm water. Failure to act quickly can cause an infestation with yellow leaves, spots, mold, and poor growth. If the plant exhibits these signs and requires additional assistance, use horticultural soap or neem oil to help reduce pest numbers and prevent further damage.

This herb should be repotted in early spring before new growth begins. Ideally, choose a pot that’s one size larger and check drainage holes to ensure there is an appropriate amount. Repotting should be done slowly; harvest the plant, trim off any dead roots, lightly divide the foliage, and replant it in fresh soil.

Deadheading spent flowers may help promote continued blooming. Otherwise, as this herb can become spindly and woody, prune to keep it neat and provide heightened air circulation. Prune back up to one-third of the plant in early spring before new growth begins.

Mulch may be used around the base of the herb to retain moisture and suppress weed growth. Use organic materials like wood chips, bark, straw, or shredded leaves.

Lemon thyme can be propagated from seed or cuttings. You can purchase seeds in a garden store, or start them indoors and transplant into the garden. For cuttings, use semi-hardwood cuttings in summer or fall and insert each cutting into well-draining soil. Keep moist and in indirect sunlight and wait for root development before transplanting into a pot or the garden.

For taller varieties, this herb may require staking to help keep branches upright during growth. To do this, use bamboo stakes or sticks and ensure they don’t damage the herb’s roots.

Lemon thyme typically doesn’t require a winter dormancy period and depending on the climate and season can be left outdoors. However, you can bring any plants growing in pots indoors at the beginning of winter or as weather cools. If you do decide to bring it inside, place the pot in an area with bright light and low humidity.

Lemon thyme is not known to be toxic or to cause any adverse reactions, and is generally considered safe to keep around pets.