Thyme Herb Seeds Packet

1. Culinary Uses:

• Used fresh or dried in soups, stews, roasts, and sauces.
• Enhances the flavor of meats, vegetables, and bread.
• A staple in Mediterranean, French, and Middle Eastern cuisine.

2. Medicinal Benefits:

• Contains antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties.
• Used in herbal teas to soothe coughs and sore throats.
• Essential oils are used for aromatherapy and skincare.

3. Companion Planting:

• Grows well with rosemary, oregano, sage, and lavender.
• Repels pests from cabbage, tomatoes, and eggplants.

Light:

• Requires full sun (6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily).

Soil:

• Prefers well-draining, sandy or loamy soil.
• Ideal soil pH: 6.0-8.0.
• Avoid heavy, clay-rich soils that trap moisture.

Watering:

• Drought-tolerant once established.
• Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between watering.
• Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.

Temperature & Climate:

• Thrives in temperatures between 60-85°F (15-30°C).
• Tolerates mild frost but needs protection from harsh winters.
• Performs well in dry, Mediterranean-like conditions.

Fertilization:

• Requires minimal fertilization.
• Apply a light dose of balanced organic fertilizer in spring.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen, which leads to leggy growth.

Mulching:

• Apply light mulch (gravel or sand) to improve drainage.
• Helps retain moisture and prevent weed growth.

Pruning & Harvesting:

• Trim plants regularly to encourage bushy growth.
• Harvest thyme when stems are 6-8 inches long.
• Use sharp scissors to cut stems, leaving 1-2 inches above ground.

Overwintering:

• In colder climates, cover plants with straw or mulch in winter.
• For container-grown thyme, bring pots indoors before frost.

Fresh Storage:

• Wrap thyme in a damp paper towel and refrigerate for 1-2 weeks.

Drying:

• Hang stems upside down in a warm, dry place.
• Once dry, store in airtight jars for up to a year.

Freezing:

• Freeze thyme leaves in ice cube trays with olive oil.
• Store in freezer bags for long-term use.

Common Pests:

• Aphids: Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
• Spider mites: Increase humidity and rinse leaves.
• Whiteflies: Use yellow sticky traps.

Common Diseases:

• Root rot: Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage.
• Powdery mildew: Provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
• Leaf spot: Remove affected leaves and apply a fungicide if necessary.