Creeping Thyme

Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) is a low-growing, perennial, ornamental groundcover. It reaches 3 to 6 inches (8 to 15 cm) in height and forms a dense mat of small, fragrant green leaves. Pink to purple flowers appear in late spring and summer and attract bees and other pollinators. The leaves can be used as a flavoring, but the plant is grown mainly as an ornamental.

Growing from seed is common for this plant, but cuttings, layering and division are also used and keep plants true to their cultivar traits. Choose a spot in full sun with well-drained soil, and avoid wet or poorly drained ground because saturated soil invites root diseases. Light, sandy loam or rocky soils suit it best.

Once established, the plant needs relatively little maintenance and only occasional watering during long dry spells. Excess fertilizer can produce weak, sprawling growth, so apply it sparingly if at all. Prune as needed to reduce woody stems, and trim lightly after flowering to keep a compact habit. Light foot traffic is tolerated, but regular foot traffic is not, so keep it off heavily used paths.

Root rot is the main concern, and it develops on poorly drained soils. Excess moisture and poor drainage are the usual causes of trouble in thyme, including root rots and other fungal diseases. Spider mites can appear in hot, dry weather. Older plants may become woody, sparse or open in the center.