There are several types of creeping thyme, and some are used as lawn alternatives to grass. Whether you should grow one depends on your own wants and needs; creeping thyme lawns are not for everyone, but they are gaining in popularity with folks who prioritize drought-tolerant and low-maintenance options (not to mention great-smelling).
Learn more about how a creeping thyme lawn compares as an alternative to grass, and whether thats the right move for you.
Red creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum Coccineus) is a ground-hugging relative of the thyme used in cooking. This plant grows only three inches tall, 12 to 18 inches wide, and is suited to USDA zones 4 to 9. It bears tiny, pointed, bluish-green leaves which give off a pleasant scent when crushed underfoot. It also produces pink flowers that may bloom off and on from June to September.
Do not buy red creeping thyme in hopes of having a plant with red flowers—red creeping thyme blooms are actually pink.
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A creeping thyme lawn is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional grass lawns. Thyme is a hardy drought-resistant perennial herb that forms a fragrant soft carpet when used as a lawn. While a thyme lawn has many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. In this article, we will explore the key pros and cons of converting your yard to a creeping thyme lawn.
Pros of a Creeping Thyme Lawn
There are many advantages to choosing creeping thyme over turf grass for your lawn, Here are some of the top benefits
Low Maintenance
Once established, creeping thyme requires very little maintenance compared to a traditional lawn. It only needs to be mowed once a year and does not require fertilizing or frequent watering. This makes it an ideal low-maintenance groundcover.
Drought Resistant
Thyme thrives in dry conditions and has very low watering needs. It can withstand drought, heat waves and neglect far better than thirsty grass lawns. This makes thyme a great choice for low-water landscaping.
No Weeds
The dense, matted foliage of thyme is effective at choking out weeds. Less time and money is needed for weed control.
Soft and Fragrant
Thyme has a pleasant, spicy herbal fragrance. When walked on, it releases its lovely aroma. The soft foliage and petite flowers make for an attractive alternative to grass.
Attracts Pollinators
The small flowers of thyme attract bees, butterflies and other beneficial pollinating insects to your garden. This supports biodiversity.
Edible and Medicinal
As an herb, thyme has edible leaves and flowers that can be used fresh or dried for culinary purposes. Thyme also has natural medicinal properties.
Evergreen Groundcover
Thyme remains green and functional as a groundcover all year round. The foliage and flowers persist through winter in milder climates.
No Mowing or Trimming
You can say goodbye to noisy, gas-guzzling lawnmowers with a thyme lawn. The weeding and edging requirements are also significantly reduced.
Cons of a Creeping Thyme Lawn
However, there are also some potential disadvantages that you should be aware of if considering a creeping thyme lawn:
Slower to Establish
Converting a section of your yard to creeping thyme takes patience and time. It can take up to 2-3 years for the thyme to fully spread and fill in bare patches. Results won’t happen overnight.
Can’t Withstand Heavy Foot Traffic
While thyme is somewhat tolerant of foot traffic once established, a pathway or pavers should be installed in high traffic areas. Too much wear and tear may damage the plants.
Not for Large Areas
Due to the time and cost involved with establishment, thyme lawns work best for smaller areas like rock gardens or as a lawn border. Entire lawn conversions are not always realistic for large properties.
Prefers Sun
Creeping thyme thrives in full sun. Too much shade will cause the plants to struggle or die out. This limits suitable planting locations.
Can Be Invasive
Some aggressive varieties of thyme can spread beyond controlled areas. Regular pruning around borders may be required to keep it in check.
Costly to Install
Converting a lawn to creeping thyme can be an expensive project, especially for larger areas. Purchasing enough starter plants alone has a hefty price tag.
Not Family or Pet Friendly
Thyme’s sensitivity to foot traffic makes it a poor choice for families with kids or dogs who will damage the lawn with heavy activity. Grass is better for high traffic play areas.
Prone to Problems if Overwatered
Thyme hates wet feet. Excess moisture encourages fungus and root rot issues. Good drainage is imperative.
Requires Weed Blocking Layer
Much labor is involved in properly preparing the soil prior to planting, including digging up and removing grass then laying weed block fabric.
No Mowing but Other Maintenance
While mowing and fertilizing are not needed, some occasional pruning, weeding and dividing is required to keep thyme looking its best.
Is a Creeping Thyme Lawn Right for You?
As you can see, there are convincing pros and cons for converting traditional lawns to creeping thyme. It mainly comes down to your climate, garden size, budget, lawn usage and maintenance expectations. Thyme makes an excellent fragrant, eco-friendly groundcover for small, sunny spots that require minimal upkeep. However, for high traffic play areas or large landscape conversions, thyme may prove challenging. Assess your individual needs and garden conditions to decide if a creeping thyme lawn will be a good fit or not. With proper planning and care, you can enjoy the benefits of this charming herbaceous alternative.
No Need to Fertilize
This has got to be one of our favorite reasons to have a creeping thyme lawn! This stunning, low-maintenance turf alternative truly is low maintenance, which means that you don’t need to fertilize it either!
It’s Also An Herb Garden
When you have a creeping thyme lawn, it’s not just a lawn but is also like having an herb garden all in one! You can use thyme leaves in a variety of ways in the kitchen, and their potent flavor is perfect for many culinary uses.
Everything You Need to Know About Creeping Thyme!
FAQ
What is the downside of creeping thyme lawn?
Downsides include:
Tolerates less foot traffic, but thrives around pavers or stepping stones. Flowers attract bees and may need regular mowing if you want to minimize them. Potential for woody growth if not mowed or pruned. Woody plants may need replacement with younger ones.
Is creeping thyme poisonous to dogs?
So, is Creeping Thyme a dog’s bane? Not exactly. It’s not classified as highly toxic, but it’s not a canine superfood either. In moderation, it’s unlikely to cause harm, but in larger quantities, it can lead to gastrointestinal distress.
Does creeping thyme attract rodents?
Deer- and rodent-resistant, Creeping Thyme is drought-tolerant once established and really tough. It can handle being walked on, mowed or ignored, and even then it may self-sow and creep some more. Hardy evergreen perennial.
Can I just scatter creeping thyme seeds?
It’s easy to grow creeping thyme herb from seed. Start by sowing the seeds indoors about 8 weeks before the last spring frost. Scatter over a seed-starting mix, lightly pressing into the surface as the seeds need light to germinate. Keep the mix consistently moist and provide plenty of light.