![]() IN-STOCK ORDERS SHIP THE NEXT BUSINESS DAY VIA THE US POST OFFICE. Store the Thymus vulgaris seed in a cool, dry place. Spread them out to dry out of direct sunlight, then thresh them to remove the seed. Seed Saving: Harvest individual thyme herb seed heads as they mature and begin to dry. Store the leaves in an airtight container. After they have dried, rub them lightly to separate the leaves from the stems. To dry entire sprigs, bundle them and hang them upside down in a warm place out of direct sunlight. The leaves reach their peak in flavor right before the flowers open after this point the flavor decreases. The best time to harvest is in the morning after the dew has dried. Harvesting: Harvest fresh leaves as soon as they reach a desirable size, cutting them down to 1-2" above ground level. After the second spring of the plants' growth, prune the plants down to half their height to encourage tender stems and neat growth. Mulch may help to keep the leaves clean and discourage weeds. ![]() Control weeds to prevent them from competing with the slow developing thyme. If the soil becomes too wet, the plant may suffer from root rot or other fungal diseases. Thyme thrives on neglect, preferring dry soil with no fertilization. Growing: Make sure the seedlings have adequate moisture, but as soon as they are established do not water them. As a companion plant, thyme attracts bees and discourages harmful insects such as the cabbage butterfly. Thyme also grows well as a container plant, and can be propogated from cuttings or root division. Direct sowing is possible but not recommended, since the seeds take much longer to germinate in the cool soil of spring this significantly shortens the growing season and delays the harvest of fresh leaves. Well after the last frost, transplant the seedlings 9-12" apart in sandy soil and full sun. ![]() Keep them out of direct sunlight, but make sure the soil temperature is at least 70 degrees F. Sowing: Start thyme herb seeds indoors 5-6 weeks before the last frost, sowing them 1/4" deep in a flat. ![]()
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