SproutSmart
SproutSmart Intelligent Garden Sowing

French Summer Thyme

Thyme

Planting Schedule

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

Aromatic as a sunlit garden path, French Summer Thyme fills the air with a bright, herbal perfume and a gently peppery, wood-kissed flavor. Its fine, narrow leaves hold a tender, springy texture that stays fragrant through the season, making it a favorite for everyday seasoning and finishing. Grow French Summer Thyme for fresh sprigs to lift sauces, soups, and roasted vegetables, or to dry and store for steady, savory character.

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 HabitUpright
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthSurface
Germination Temp (°F)70
Min Soil Temp (°F)45
Min Night Temp (°F)35
Harden Off (days)7

Frequently Asked Questions


How often should I water French summer thyme during active growth?
During the main growth period, water deeply only when the top 1 inch of soil dries out, which is typically about once per week in summer but less in cool or rainy weather. Keep the soil on the dry side overall—thyme tolerates drought better than constant moisture, and soggy conditions quickly lead to root issues.
How can I tell when French summer thyme is ready to harvest?
Harvest about 60 days after sowing (or once plants are well established and reach roughly 6–8 inches tall). Snip stems just above a set of leaves, and harvest in the morning for best flavor; avoid cutting into bare, woody stems because regrowth is slower.
Botanical illustration of French Summer Thyme

Aromatic as a sunlit garden path, French Summer Thyme fills the air with a bright, herbal perfume and a gently peppery, wood-kissed flavor. Its fine, narrow leaves hold a tender, springy texture that stays fragrant through the season, making it a favorite for everyday seasoning and finishing. Grow French Summer Thyme for fresh sprigs to lift sauces, soups, and roasted vegetables, or to dry and store for steady, savory character.