Creeping Thyme

PERENNIAL Spring/summer/fall harvest Frost hardy BEST TO START INDOORS Sow in early spring in a container of seed starting mix. Cover seeds very lightly and keep evenly moist but not soggy until seedlings emerge in 14 to 21 days. Provide a good light source until ready to plant outside. TO PLANT IN THE GARDEN Sow creeping thyme in a finely textured seedbed in full sun after soil has warmed up in spring. Good drainage is essential. Sow very thinly, cover seeds lightly and carefully keep the seed bed evenly moist and well weeded as young seedlings are slow growing at first. Transplant when 2 to 3 inches tall after acclimating to outdoor conditions. THIN OR TRANSPLANT Space clusters of 3-4 seedlings 8 inches apart when large enough to handle so plants have room to grow and thrive. GROWING NOTES Given good drainage and a sunny location, easy-growing creeping thyme plants are reliable and productive garden perennials. Be sure to thin or transplant seedlings to proper spacing and keep weed free; plants will fill out and spread once well established. Little lavender-rose flowers bloom atop the shiny dense leaves at midsummer.