Creeping Thyme Planting Guide

Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) is a hardy, aromatic perennial groundcover known for dense growth, tiny leaves, and seasonal bursts of pink or purple flowers. Once established, it tolerates light foot traffic, resists many common pests, and naturally helps suppress weeds.

Pro Tip On slopes or loose, sandy soils, add Seed-Tac to your order. It helps keep tiny thyme seeds in place and improves germination on erosion-prone areas.

Add Seed-Tac

Why Grow Creeping Thyme?

Dense Carpet

Replaces problem lawn patches with a living carpet

Low Maintenance

Low water needs once established, no mowing required

Attracts Pollinators

In bloom, Creeping Thyme is covered in small flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.

Softens Paths

Perfect between pavers and along walkways

Earthwise Planting

How To Grow Creeping Thyme

01

When To Plant

Plant outdoors in late spring once soil temperatures are
warm. Hardy in USDA Zones 4–9.

Start indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost if desired.

02

Where To Plant

• Full sun preferred (tolerates partial shade)

• Well-drained soil is essential

• Ideal soil pH: 6.5–7.5

• Light compost improves early growth

03

How To Plant

• Seeds need light – do not bury

• Press gently into soil surface

• Keep soil evenly moist

• Germination: 21–28 days

04

Care & Maintenance

• Slow to establish, very low maintenance once rooted

• Height: 2–3 inches

• Trim lightly after flowering

• Woody centers are normal – trim and allow regrowth

Best Uses

✅ Between stepping stones

✅ Walkway edges

✅ Slopes and sunny banks

✅ Low-traffic lawn alternatives

✅ Rock gardens

Success Checklist

✅ Full sun

✅ Well-drained soil

✅ Press seeds into surface

✅ Patience during establishment

✅ Enjoy a mower-free lawn

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Creeping Thyme Planting Guide