Would you like to replace your green grass with a creeping thyme lawn? This is the simplest and most concise guide to creeping thyme. Since green lawns require more upkeep and the grass goes brown, they are less desirable in 2025.
In addition to being less maintenance-intensive, creeping thyme is inherently more appealing than green turf. It adds beauty to the garden and is naturally friendly. When paired with postratre ground cover plants, creeping thyme is a fantastic substitute for green lawns in the UK.
The advantages of a creeping thyme lawn
- An evergreen perennial with a modest growth rate, creeping thyme looks good all year round and takes little care.
- It is superior to green lawns since it doesn’t turn brown when neglected.
- There is no need for watering or mowing when growing creeping thyme.
- It will continue to be evergreen in mild winters and grow into thick mats that can withstand foot activity.
- In the summer, creeping thyme is more abundant with flowers of many hues, which is ideal for pollinators.
- It also has a strong defense against diseases that frequently harm other plants and pets like dogs and cats.
Drawbacks to Creeping Thyme
Creeping thyme has the following drawbacks:
Particularly during the first year, creeping thyme requires time to develop and spread.
Because of its inability to flourish in shaded regions, its planting options are limited.
It is inappropriate for damp locations due to the risk of root rot caused by poor drainage.
The cost of creeping thyme seeds or seedlings may be higher than that of conventional grass.
How can a lawn with creeping thyme be planted?
A Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum) lawn is considerably simpler to plant in your home. Because it allows the plants to root, spring to summer is the ideal season for creeping thyme plantations. Because it needs full sunlight and well-drained soil, creeping thyme cannot grow in poor soil drainage. Planting them 6–12 inches apart is recommended. During the first year, creeping thyme establishes itself and develops slowly. However, it takes around three years for it to reach 6 to 18 inches.
Following the grass and rocks have been removed, loosen the soil.
- Plant creeping thyme seedlings 8–12 inches apart, or scatter creeping thyme seeds equally across the soil.
- Press gently into the soil and water to maintain moisture.
- You need at least six hours of sunlight per day to grow.
- Once planted, thyme can withstand drought, so water it sparingly.
How should I take care of a creeping thyme?
It takes less care to produce creeping thyme, as I have already said. There are important things to keep in mind when maintaining your lawn of creeping thyme.
- Ensure creeping thyme needs at least six hours of sunlight per day in order to grow.
- Soil that drains well is ideal for creeping thyme. Determine whether the pH of your soil is between 6.0 and 8.0 by testing it. The ideal soil for it is somewhat alkaline.
- Keep the soil damp when it first begins to grow until it becomes established. Watering too much can damage the root.
- It is not necessary to fertilise creeping thyme heavily. Early spring fertiliser that is balanced is sufficient to maintain its health.
- Creeping thyme can withstand temperatures as low as 0°F with the right conditions, although it prefers temperatures between 65°F and 85°F.
Common Issues
There aren’t many issues with creeping thyme because of dogs. However, it can be harmed by tiny insects such as gnats, spiders, whiteflies, and aphids that draw in mould and weaken the plant by sucking sap and causing wilting.
Despite its resistance to disease, creeping thyme can be harmed by excessive watering, which can impact its development.
Patchy patches and weakened growth are the results of foot traffic-crushing creeping thyme roots. Compaction of the soil also reduces drainage and raises the risk of illness.
In conclusion,
A lawn made of creeping thyme is far easier to maintain, more resilient, and more attractive than one made of ordinary grass. Climbing thyme grows best in sunny, well-drained areas and is particularly well-suited for gardens in the United Kingdom. It is also resistant to pests, diseases, and light foot activity. For those looking for a vivid, sustainable ground cover that can tolerate a variety of situations and helps pollinators, its hardiness and inherent charm make it a great option.
FAQs
Is it okay for dogs to eat creeping thyme?
It is completely safe for dogs to consume creeping thyme. Therefore, if you have furry companions, don’t worry—it’s a safe option for a garden that welcomes pets.
Does grass give way to creeping thyme?
Indeed, grass can be progressively supplanted by creeping thyme, which eventually outcompetes it with a dense, low-growing mat.
Are creeping thyme seeds okay to scatter?
In order to improve germination, keep the soil moist and gently press the creeping thyme seeds into the ground.
Which creeping thyme drawbacks exist?
Not all landscapes are suitable for creeping thyme because of its slow growth, need for well-drained soil, and limited tolerance for shadow.
Is it necessary to dig up your lawn before you can grow creeping thyme?
Indeed, it is ideal to remove any existing grass and weeds in order to provide a clean space for creeping thyme to grow and spread.
