Easygoing
Thyme is an extremely easygoing plant. Once it's established, it will adapt and thrive just about anywhere - you can even walk on it and it won't mind. For best results, plant in a spot in the garden with plenty of sun. Thyme is drought-tolerant, so watering is rarely necessary. Fertilizer is not necessary when planting in the garden. If planting in a container, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring and once more mid-summer after pruning. Pruning thyme is a necessity to promote tender new growth to use in cooking. If left on the plant, stems become woody and tough.
Overwintering
Thyme is a perennial in zones 5 and above, with certain varieties going back to zone 4. Cease pruning in mid-summer to keep the plant from putting out new growth that may get damaged by winter temperatures. Apply a thick layer of organic mulch such as shredded leaves at first frost.
