Silver Queen Thyme

Thyme

Zone 10b Save Garden

🌱 60d to harvest Upright

Fragrant, silvery foliage drifts with a cool, herbal perfume—Silver Queen Thyme forms a dense, low cushion of leaves that feel fi…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Dec 4th
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Feb 12th
Harvest Begins	Apr 13th
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	60
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	10

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease problem commonly affects Thymus vulgaris (English thyme), and what’s the best home fix?

Thymus vulgaris is especially prone to root rot and stem dieback when soil stays damp—often showing as blackened stems at the base and wilting despite watering. Water only when the top 1–2 in (2–5 cm) of soil is dry, keep plants in full sun, and improve drainage with gritty soil or raised beds. If you see browned stems, remove affected shoots and avoid overhead watering; in severe cases, replant in fresh, drier soil to break the disease cycle.

How often should I water Silver Queen thyme during peak growth, and what soil moisture level should I aim for?

During the main growing phase, water deeply only when the top 1–2 in (2–5 cm) of soil has dried out. Aim for consistently “dry to lightly moist” soil—thyme prefers a near-drought cycle and will sulk or rot in persistently wet ground. In containers, check moisture more often and use a fast-draining potting mix so excess water never sits in the bottom saucer.

When is Silver Queen thyme ready to harvest, and what signs should I look for?

Harvest when plants reach about 60 days from sowing and have formed vigorous growth with many healthy leaves along the stems. For best flavor, take sprigs just before the plant flowers (or immediately as buds begin to form), and snip no more than one-third of the total growth at a time to keep the plant productive. After harvest, pinch back lightly if needed so new shoots fill in before the next growth wave.

Fragrant, silvery foliage drifts with a cool, herbal perfume—Silver Queen Thyme forms a dense, low cushion of leaves that feel finely textured and richly aromatic at every touch. The flavor is bright and savory with a gentle, mint-kissed lift, ideal for fresh sprigs and dried bundles alike. Grow it for its ornamental silver cast as well as its dependable culinary presence in roasts, sauces, and quick infusions.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.

Expert Note

Start thyme in light, well-drained seed-start mix and transplant only after nights are reliably warm to keep seedlings from stalling.