SproutSmart
SproutSmart™ Intelligent Garden Sowing

German Winter

Thyme
Zone 13a Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add German Winter to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of German Winter
365d to harvest

Breathe in the unmistakable, cool-minty fragrance of German Winter thyme—an evergreen, winter-hardy favorite that deepens in character as the season turns. Its tiny leaves are richly aromatic and hold a fine, resilient texture, making it a steadfast garden performer from first planting through long, chilly weather. Grow German Winter thyme for bold herbal flavor in dried bundles and fresh sprigs, and let its hardy presence anchor your kitchen garden year-round.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 13a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
MilestoneDate
Start Indoors—
ClimateFrost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsOct 1st
Harvest BeginsFeb 28th
Harvest EndsFeb 28th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity365
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitUpright
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)70
Min Soil Temp (°F)45
Min Night Temp (°F)28
Harden Off (days)7

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for German Winter in Zone 13a typically begins around 2026-10-01. Wait until soil reaches at least 45°F before transplanting German Winter.

Garden Alerts

In frost-free Zone 13a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Thymus vulgaris (German winter thyme), and how do I treat it?
The most common problem is root rot from overly wet soil, often showing up as wilting plus dark, mushy roots. Plant German winter thyme in fast-draining soil and water only when the top 1 inch is dry; if you see rotting plants, lift and discard affected starts and avoid replanting in the same spot. Another frequent issue is leaf spot—remove infected stems promptly and keep airflow high by not crowding plants.
How can I tell when German winter thyme is ready to harvest?
Harvest once plants are well established and have multiple healthy stems—typically after about 8–12 weeks from transplant, then again as it grows through the year. Pick when leaves are fully formed and fragrant, usually just before flowering, and snip stems back to just above a set of leaves. If you want the best flavor for winter use, do a light harvest before heavy cold while new growth is still vigorous.
Botanical illustration of German Winter

Breathe in the unmistakable, cool-minty fragrance of German Winter thyme—an evergreen, winter-hardy favorite that deepens in character as the season turns. Its tiny leaves are richly aromatic and hold a fine, resilient texture, making it a steadfast garden performer from first planting through long, chilly weather. Grow German Winter thyme for bold herbal flavor in dried bundles and fresh sprigs, and let its hardy presence anchor your kitchen garden year-round.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for German Winter in Zone 13a typically begins around 2026-10-01. Wait until soil reaches at least 45°F before transplanting German Winter.

Garden Alerts

In frost-free Zone 13a, 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 thyme (especially hardy/cold-tolerant types), start indoors for uniform plants, then transplant only when nights are reliably above freezing and harden off well.