Would you like to install a creeping thyme lawn in place of your current green grass? The most straightforward and condensed guide about creeping thyme is this one. Green lawns are less appealing in 2025 since they need more maintenance and the grass becomes brown.
Compared to green turf, creeping thyme is naturally more aesthetically pleasing and requires less upkeep. It is inherently amiable and enhances the garden’s charm. Creeping thyme is an excellent alternative to green lawns in the UK when combined with postratre ground cover plants.
The benefits of having a lawn with creeping thyme
- Climbing thyme is an evergreen perennial that requires minimal maintenance and has a moderate growth rate. It looks excellent all year round.
- Since it doesn’t turn brown when neglected, it is better than green lawns.
- Growing creeping thyme doesn’t require mowing or watering.
- In moderate winters, it will remain evergreen and develop into dense mats that are resilient to foot traffic.
- For pollinators, creeping thyme is more numerous in the summer and has flowers of a variety of colours.
- Additionally, it is highly resistant to diseases that commonly affect pets like dogs and cats as well as other plants.
The disadvantages of creeping thyme
The following are disadvantages of creeping thyme:
- It takes time for creeping thyme to grow and spread, especially in the first year.
- Its restricted planting possibilities are due to its inability to thrive in areas that get shade.
- The danger of root rot brought on by inadequate drainage, it is not suitable for moist areas.
- Compared to traditional grass, creeping thyme seeds or seedlings may be more expensive.
How do you plant creeping thyme in a lawn?
It’s much easier to plant a creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) lawn at home. Spring to summer is the best time of year for creeping thyme plantations since it gives the plants time to root. Poor soil drainage prevents creeping thyme from growing since it requires full sunlight and well-drained soil. It is advised to plant them 6–12 inches apart. Creeping thyme sprouts itself and grows gradually throughout the first year. But it takes around three years for it to grow to a length of 6 to 18 inches.
When the rocks and grass have been cleared away, soften the soil.
- Scatter creeping thyme seeds evenly over the soil or plant creeping thyme seedlings 8–12 inches apart.
- To keep the soil and water moist, gently press.
- For growth, you require a minimum of six hours of sunlight each day.
- Water thyme sparingly because it can tolerate drought once planted.
What is the best way to care for creeping thyme?
- As I mentioned earlier, creeping thyme requires less attention. When caring for a creeping thyme lawn, there are a few key considerations.
- Make sure that for creeping thyme to thrive, it receives at least six hours of sunlight each day.
- Creeping thyme thrives in well-draining soil. By testing your soil, you can find out if its pH is between 6.0 and 8.0. It thrives in slightly alkaline soil.
- When it first starts to grow, keep the soil moist until it establishes itself. Excessive watering might harm the root.
- Heavy fertilisation is not required for creeping thyme. A balanced fertiliser applied early in the spring is enough to keep it healthy.
- Although it loves temperatures between 65°F and 85°F, creeping thyme can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F under the correct circumstances.
Typical Problems
- Dogs don’t present much problems for creeping thyme. Tiny insects like gnats, spiders, whiteflies, and aphids, however, can damage it by attracting mould and weakening the plant by sucking sap and causing wilting.
- Even though creeping thyme is disease-resistant, overwatering can damage it and affect how it grows.
- Foot traffic crushes the roots of creeping thyme, resulting in patchy patches and decreased development. Compaction of the soil also increases the danger of disease and decreases drainage.
Conclusion
Compared to a lawn made of regular grass, one built with creeping thyme is far easier to manage, more robust, and more visually appealing. Climbing thyme thrives in sunny, well-drained environments and is well suited for UK gardens. Additionally, it is resistant to illnesses, pests, and mild foot traffic. Its resilience and innate charm make it an excellent choice for anyone searching for a vibrant, long-lasting ground cover that can withstand a range of conditions and aid pollinators.
FAQs
Is eating creeping thyme safe for dogs?
Creeping thyme is totally safe for dogs to eat. It’s a safe choice for a pet-friendly landscape, so don’t worry if you have furry friends.
Does spreading thyme replace grass?
In fact, creeping thyme can gradually replace grass, eventually outcompeting it with a low-growing, dense mat.
Is it acceptable to distribute creeping thyme seeds?
Keep the soil moist and gently press the creeping thyme seeds into the ground to enhance germination.
What are the disadvantages of creeping thyme?
Because creeping thyme grows slowly, requires well-drained soil, and has a limited tolerance for shadow, it is not appropriate for many types of settings.
Is digging up your lawn a must for growing creeping thyme?
To provide a clear area for creeping thyme to develop and spread, it is best to eliminate any existing grass and weeds.
