Lawn Guardian

Creeping Thyme Care Guide

Thymus serpyllum

ground_coverZones 4–9deer resistant

Fragrant, mat-forming herb with tiny aromatic leaves and masses of tiny pink-purple flowers in summer. Tolerates light foot traffic and releases fragrance when stepped on.

At a glance

Season-by-season care

Spring

Clean up winter-damaged foliage Early spring

Remove any brown or dead patches and lightly trim to encourage fresh growth.

Summer

Enjoy flowers and fragrance Summer

Masses of tiny flowers attract bees and butterflies. Step on plantings near paths to release fragrance.

Fall

Apply light mulch in cold areas Late fall

In zones 4-5, a light layer of evergreen boughs protects from harsh winter.

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Related plants

Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns