Thyme is one of the most fragrant herbs that you can add to a home garden. It’s evergreen qualities make it a likely candidate for edging, borders, and foliage along walkways. Its culinary qualities make it one of the most used herbs in kitchens around the world. You’ll find thyme in everything from garni, to herbs de Provence, to Italian seasonings. Culinary thyme is a perennial that is drought-tolerant and attracts pollinators with its small blossoms that appear each springtime.

So you’ve decided to plant thyme in your garden? According to our research on thyme, you can plant anything nearby!

Thyme thrives in full sun and hot conditions, making it an ideal herb for zones 8 and 9, and can be planted in a garden bed, or in containers and window boxes. Plant the herbs in early spring and add a small amount of organic matter to the soil bed. Thyme will only need to be watered when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Similar to mint, thyme is a vigorous grower, so be cautious of what other items are planted nearby in your garden or in a container.

The best thyme to harvest your thyme is right before the plant flowers. Feel free to take up to 1/3 of the plants growth. Thyme can be used both fresh and dried, and a regular harvest of your herb will encourage new growth to regenerate areas that have been harvested. Be sure to strip the herb’s leaves from the woody stalks before using. In food, thyme can be added to dishes ranging from stews and sauces, to teas and seafood, and even can be added to butter for a fresh, lemony kick.