SproutSmart
SproutSmart™ Intelligent Garden Sowing

Creeping

Thyme
Zone 11a Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add Creeping to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Creeping
60d to harvest

Creeping thyme drapes with a fragrant, mossy carpet—its tiny leaves release a bright, herbal perfume at the slightest touch. At maturity, the foliage forms a low, spreading mat with a fine, velvety texture and a clean, savory flavor that shines in herb-forward blends. Ideal for fresh garnishing and for seasoning roasts, soups, and sauces where its aromatic character can perfume the whole dish.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 11a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
MilestoneDate
Start Indoors—
ClimateFrost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsOct 1st
Harvest BeginsNov 30th
Harvest EndsFeb 28th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity60
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitSpreading
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthSurface
Germination Temp (°F)65
Min Soil Temp (°F)45
Min Night Temp (°F)40
Harden Off (days)7

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Creeping in Zone 11a typically begins around 2026-10-01. Wait until soil reaches at least 45°F before transplanting Creeping.

Garden Alerts

In frost-free Zone 11a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

Recommended Companions

Prostrata (Creeping Rosemary) Rosemary
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Berggarten Sage Sage
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Provence Lavender
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Phenomenal Lavender
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Salem Rosemary
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Golden Sage Sage
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Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water creeping thyme during its main growing phase?
During active growth (after establishment), water only when the top 1–2 cm of soil feels dry, usually about once every 7–14 days depending on heat and soil drainage. Aim to wet the root zone thoroughly, but avoid frequent light watering that keeps the surface constantly damp. Once the mat is established, reduce watering further because Thymus serpyllum is drought-tolerant and performs best with drier conditions.
How do I tell when creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) is ready to harvest?
Harvest at about 60 days from sowing when the plants form a dense, low mat with lots of small leaves and active new growth. Snip stems in the morning when oils are strongest, taking no more than one-third of the growth at a time to keep the mat dense. If you’re harvesting for flavor, do a first harvest just before or as flowers start to open for the best balance of aroma.
Botanical illustration of Creeping

Creeping thyme drapes with a fragrant, mossy carpet—its tiny leaves release a bright, herbal perfume at the slightest touch. At maturity, the foliage forms a low, spreading mat with a fine, velvety texture and a clean, savory flavor that shines in herb-forward blends. Ideal for fresh garnishing and for seasoning roasts, soups, and sauces where its aromatic character can perfume the whole dish.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Creeping in Zone 11a typically begins around 2026-10-01. Wait until soil reaches at least 45°F before transplanting Creeping.

Garden Alerts

In frost-free Zone 11a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

Sowing Tips

Soil Temperature

Direct sow or transplant when soil at planting depth holds 45°F for reliable germination and early growth.

Expert Note

For fastest establishment, sow on the surface (light helps germination) and keep evenly moist until you see a mat forming, then let it dry down between waterings.