How to Grow Thyme in Australia
A year-round herb crop for the home garden
Growing Thyme rewards a little local know-how, and in the right season the plants do most of the work for you. It is rated beginner to grow. Saves ~$2-3/week, perennial and drought-tolerant once established.
This guide covers when to plant Thyme in your region, the position and soil it likes, how to sow and space it, day-to-day care, the pests and diseases to watch, and how to harvest and store your crop.
When to Plant in Your Region
Thyme is a year-round crop, fully frost-hardy. In subtropical South-East Queensland it is sown in March, April, May, June, July, August, September and October. Timing shifts with your climate, so choose your region below for a local calendar.
Position and Soil
Give Thyme full sun (at least 6 hours a day). It does best in free-draining soil with a pH around 6 to 8. Dig through plenty of compost before planting, and mulch to hold moisture and keep weeds down. It grows happily in a pot of 15cm+, which makes it a fine choice for balconies and courtyards.
Sowing and Spacing
Sow seed on the surface, barely covered. Thin or space plants to about 30 cm apart. Seedlings usually appear in around 21 days, fastest when the soil is between 18 and 25 degrees.
Low water, full sun. Great edging plant.
Care
Water consistently, roughly 2 L per plant every 4 days in warm weather, less in cool or wet spells. Feed every few weeks through the growing season with a balanced organic fertiliser, and keep mulch topped up.
Pests and Diseases
The main diseases to watch are Root rot and Grey mould. Good spacing, watering at the base rather than over the leaves, and crop rotation prevent most problems. See our Pest and Disease Guide to identify and fix any issue.
Harvesting and Storage
Thyme is typically ready to harvest in around 120 days (about 4 months). Fridge loosely wrapped, up to 2 weeks. Dry easily by hanging.
In the Kitchen
In the kitchen, thyme is good added to roasts, stews and casseroles, infused in butter for mushrooms, used in herbes de Provence blend and fresh in marinades for chicken. Nutritionally: rich in thymol with antimicrobial properties and supports respiratory health and cough relief.
Companion Planting
Thyme grows well alongside Cabbage and Strawberry. Our Companion Planting Guide has the full pairings.
Track Your Thyme Growing
Add thyme to your garden in the Planting Season app and get reminders for planting, care and harvest, tuned to your region.
Open the App →Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Thyme in Australia?
Thyme is a year-round crop. In subtropical regions like South-East Queensland it is sown in March, April, May, June, July, August, September and October. Timing changes with your climate, so use the calendar above for your region.
How long does Thyme take to grow?
Thyme is generally ready to harvest in around 120 days (about 4 months).
Can I grow Thyme in a pot?
Yes. Thyme grows well in a container of 15cm+ with free-draining mix and regular watering.
How much sun does Thyme need?
Give it full sun (at least 6 hours a day) for the healthiest growth and best harvest.
See also: Thyme in the Plant Library
