As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can tell you that creeping thyme is a perennial plant, which means it does come back every year. This is great news for gardeners who want a low-maintenance ground cover that will provide color and fragrance year after year.
Creeping thyme, also known as Thymus serpyllum, is a popular choice for many gardeners because of its ability to spread and form a dense mat of foliage. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a variety of growing conditions, including poor soil and dry spells. With proper care, creeping thyme can thrive and return each spring with its beautiful blooms.
To ensure that your creeping thyme comes back every year, there are a few key steps you can take. First and foremost, it’s important to plant your thyme in a suitable location. Creeping thyme prefers full sun, so choose a spot in your garden that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
In terms of soil, creeping thyme is not particularly picky and can grow in a wide range of soil types. However, it does prefer well-drained soil. If you have heavy clay soil, it may be beneficial to amend it with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve drainage and fertility.
While creeping thyme doesn’t usually require enriched soil, providing a nutrient boost can encourage flower production and overall plant health. You can achieve this by incorporating a slow-release fertilizer into the soil during the planting process or by top-dressing with compost or a balanced organic fertilizer in the spring.
To keep your creeping thyme blooming year after year, it’s also important to prune the plant regularly. At the end of the growing season, typically in late fall or early winter, take the time to trim back any old, woody stems. This will encourage new growth and promote the development of flowers in the following spring.
I personally have had great success with this method of pruning. By removing the older stems, I’ve noticed that my creeping thyme plants become fuller and produce more flowers the following year. It’s a simple task that can make a big difference in the overall appearance and performance of your thyme plants.
Creeping thyme is a perennial plant that does come back every year. With proper care, including planting in a sunny location, providing well-drained soil, and occasional pruning, you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of this low-maintenance ground cover for many years to come.
