Q.We have planted thyme as a ground cover in our driveway as a substitute for the grass we had growing between flagstones so that we
could be water efficient now that Ojai is suffering a severe drought. We began the planting end of April and completed it first week in June. We watered to get the plants established, Perhaps we were overwatering everyday. It seemed that we should as within a few days some of the plants dried up. About 25% of the planting looked like we lost them but slowly some of those have tiny leaves and appear to be coming ‘back to life’. We have had 90+ degrees in Ojai now and feel like we should be watering everyday in the evening.
Is that true? Also the beginning of the driveway is in semi shade and it seems we lost more plants there. The watering may also be very different for that area.
Any pointers you can give us? We spent a lot of money to get rid of the grass with hopes that we would have a beautiful drought tolerant thyme filled driveway.
The plant soil should be kept moist, but not soggy or dry. This ma be difficult in your heat and drought conditions at this time.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/thyme/growing-creeping-thyme.htm
This article may give you some other options.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/xeriscape/drought-tolerant-ground-covers.htm
