HERB ‘Thyme Winter’ Seeds
Botanical Name: Thymus vulgaris
- Also known as English thyme, this variety is prized for its earthy, aromatic flavour.
- Perfect for flavouring roasted meats, soups, stews, and Mediterranean cuisine.
- Produces compact, bushy plants with small, pink-lavender flowers that attract pollinators.
- Perennial herb suited to borders, containers, and rock gardens.
- Hardy in cool climates; drought-tolerant once established.
- Can also be grown as a fragrant microgreen.
Plant Details
- Plant Type: Perennial herb
- Plant Height: 20–30 cm
Sowing Information
- Germination: 14–21 days at 15–20°C
- Depth: Sow 0.5 cm deep
- Position: Full sun, well-drained, slightly alkaline soil
- Sow Where: Direct into garden beds, containers, or raised beds
- Soil Type: Fertile, free-draining (pH 6.0–8.0)
- Spacing: 25 cm between plants
Growing Tips
- Thyme prefers dry conditions—avoid overwatering.
- Trim regularly to promote compact, bushy growth.
- Prune after flowering to encourage new leaf production.
- Mulch lightly to suppress weeds and maintain soil warmth.
Harvest
Harvest fresh leaves 80–90 days after sowing. For best flavour, pick before flowering. Use fresh or dry for storage.
When to Sow Thyme in New Zealand
| Region | Best Sowing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| North Island – Upper (e.g. Auckland, Bay of Plenty) | August to November, March to May | Avoid high summer humidity. Excellent drainage is essential. |
| North Island – Lower (e.g. Wellington, Hawke’s Bay) | September to December | Start in trays and transplant for early spring crops. |
| South Island – Upper (e.g. Nelson, Marlborough) | October to December | Well-suited to dry, sunny areas with light soils. |
| South Island – Lower (e.g. Canterbury, Otago) | October to January | Choose a warm, sheltered spot. Protect from heavy frost. |
How to Grow Thyme as Microgreens
- No pre-soaking needed.
- Use approx. 10 g of seed per 30 × 35 cm tray.
- Fill tray with 2–3 cm of fine potting mix and moisten.
- Scatter seeds evenly and press gently into surface. Do not cover heavily.
- Cover with a lid or blackout dome for 5–7 days in a dark, well-ventilated space.
- Water once or twice daily. After germination, uncover and place in a sunny location.
Harvest (Microgreens): 20–30 days after sowing. Use clean scissors to cut 1–2 cm above soil level.
