How to grow Thyme German Winter Seeds
To grow thyme from seed, start by sowing the seeds indoors, either in a greenhouse or on a warm, sunny windowsill. Ensure that the seeds are started early in the season, allowing ample time for germination and growth before they are transplanted outdoors. Thyme is sensitive to cold, so it’s crucial to wait until temperatures consistently reach 18°C or warmer before moving the plants outside. If you prefer, you can also sow seeds directly in the garden once the weather has warmed up.
Thyme thrives in light, well-draining soil enriched with well-composted material. This type of soil helps prevent waterlogging, which thyme is particularly sensitive to. When sowing the seeds, cover them lightly with fine soil, ensuring they are not buried too deeply. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period, which can take about 7 to 21 days. Adequate moisture is key during this stage to support seedling development.
Once the seedlings have reached about 5 cm in height, it's time to thin them out, leaving the strongest plants. Gradually acclimate the seedlings to outdoor conditions by hardening them off over a week or so before transplanting them into the garden. This helps reduce transplant shock and prepares them for outdoor growth. Plant them in a sunny spot with well-drained soil, spacing each plant appropriately to ensure good air circulation. With proper care, thyme plants will mature in approximately 60 to 90 days, providing you with a fragrant, hardy herb that can be harvested for culinary and medicinal use.