Hello, I planted lemon thyme ground cover in front of my house last year and they were doing great up until early July. I started seeing that they were browning and wouldn’t stop. The front of my house gets sun all afternoon and I’m not sure if i need to water it more or if they are too close together? Any suggestions will be great. Thank you!
In fact, it may be quite the opposite problem! These are quite drought tolerant, and will not tolerate wet soils. Soils that are compact and moist will lead to root rot, which looks to be the case here.
You will need a fungicide. This article will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm
Prune out all infected growth, and destroy them, or throw them away from the area. This article will help you with the care of the plant:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/thyme/growing-lemon-thyme.htm
What are agronomy practices to ensure Thyme transplanted have 95% establishment on field
We focus on backyard gardening more than agriculture. You may want to contact an agricultural group or university in your area for details on a large scale. Here is what we have on the subject:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/thyme/propagating-thyme.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/thyme/pruning-thyme-plants.htm
Once germinated and planted how long before plants take hold?
It should only take a few weeks to establish, once planted. This is given that the proper conditions are met.
Here is an article that will help you with the care of Creeping Thyme:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/thyme/growing-creeping-thyme.htm
I live in the tropics.
Thyme likes soil that's a balanced pH of 7 or a bit acidy, down to 6. The most important thing to keep in mind is that it needs extremely well-draining soil. You didn't say whether you're wanting to grow it in a pot or in the ground, but you may want to mix in some perlite or use a succulent mix. Here's an article that may help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/making-sure-soil-drains-well.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/thyme/tips-for-growing-thyme-in-your-garden.htm
We replaced our lawn with Hals wooly thyme. It is perfect, except for in the winter. The dormant leaves are dull grey/brown. I'd like to add some winter green. I believe red and elfin do well in the same growing conditions, but need to know what they look like in the winter state.
Actually, I think that Elfin Thyme will perform quite well in your area, year round!Here is an article that will help you:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/thyme/elfin-thyme-information.htm
I have an area just outside my patio cover that does not have any grass. It does get plenty of sunlight but does not drain well during rainy season. Can I use elfin thyme in that area?
It needs well draining soil so it would not do well unless you improved the soil in that area. Ajuga, however, tolerates wet soil.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/thyme/elfin-thyme-information.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/ajuga/ajuga-bugleweed.htm
My question: how deep should till the soil to acommadate the additional soil and sand. Your suggestion on type(s) of sand. Thank you, At U. In region 6 Pittsburgh, Pa.w/full sun.
It really depends on your topsoil. If there is much clay in there, then I would not use any sand, as it will turn to concrete after the first few rains. If this topsoil is rich, and amended with compost, then I wouldn't use more than 5 to 10 percent.
It is worth noting that thyme will do well in, particularly, poor soil, so amending it heavily isn't necessary.
I would mix topsoil, roughly 20 percent. Sand, 5 percent. Compost, 25 percent. The rest of the 50 percent would be good to be coco coir. Though it is not nutrient rich, it is very good at regulating moisture. This is going to be something you will want while the thyme is young, since they will be sensitive to rot from wet soils. That soil combination should provide the perfect conditions for thyme to take hold.
I would dig between 6 inches and a 12 inches. It doesn't need much root space, but if you can provide more depth you will be rewarded with more lush plant growth.
Please make sure that there is nothing in the area before you dig. I can't stress this enough. Hitting lines like gas, water, or electric has some serious consequences.
Here are some articles that will help you:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/thyme/growing-creeping-thyme.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/how-to-improve-clay-soil.htm