French Thyme Seeds

Native to the Mediterranean region, French thyme is a perennial herb that is appreciated in the kitchen for its slightly spicy, woody aroma. The plants with small grey-green leaves grow to about 8-12 inches tall and bear small pink or purple blooms in the summer. French thyme is hardy in the garden and it can be grown in pots as well.  Especially popular in French cuisine, it is one of the herbs used to make ‘’bouquet garni,’’ a bundle of herbs wrapped in a cloth used to flavour soups and stews. French thyme is a delicious addition to roasted vegetables, meats and fish and is also superb served with goat cheese and a baguette.

- Latin Name: Thymus vulgaris
- Life Cycle: Perrenial
- Days to Maturity: 80-90
- Canada Hardiness Zone: 6-9
- Planting Depth: 5 mm
- Plant Spacing: 30-45 cm
- Growth Habit: 30 cm tall

GROWING INSTRUCTIONS

A prominent herb that can be found in many kitchen gardens and stocked in every cook's spice rack lends its subtle flavour to endless recipes.

Start thyme seeds indoors 4 weeks before the last frost. Plant seeds 5 mm deep under fluorescent lights and maintain moisture and a soil temperature of 21 degrees. Thyme seeds can also be sown directly into the garden as early as the soil can be worked. Patience and faith is required, germination may take up to 30 days.

A site with loose, well-drained soil and full sun will produce the healthiest and most fragrant plants. After the last frost has passed, transplant seedlings 30 cm apart. Water well until they are established. Fully grown plants should be allowed to dry out between waterings.

The aroma of thyme repels many pests and also masks the fragrance of plants that draw in pests. For health and growth benefits, plant thyme with any member of the brassica family, such as cabbage, broccoli or kale. It will also grow well among nightshades like eggplant, potatoes and tomatoes as well as other herbs like chives and rosemary.

Weed around thyme plants regularly. Prune plants heavily once in the spring and again after flowering to prevent thyme from becoming woody. Harvest mature plants as needed. The flavour of the leaves are best right before flowers open.

Take plants in for the winter months, or mulch heavily to protect them from the harsh elements. Thyme can be easily dried and enjoyed throughout the year in all of your favorite recipes!

QUICK FACTS

- Thyme was first grown around 3000 BC in Persia.

- Most culinary herbs are best used fresh but thyme is an exception, it is more concentrated when dried.

- Thyme can be turned into a fragrant essential oil. It is often used in perfumes, soaps and lotions.

- Thyme seeds will remain viable for 3 years if stored in a cool, dark place, ideally between 4 and 10⁰C. After that, the germination rate may start to go down.