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Thymeis an easy-growing, Mediterranean evergreen shrub that is generally low maintenance, thriving in sun conditions.
It’s drought tolerant andcomes back every year.
But it does have one quirkyou have to harvestthymecorrectly if you want it to thrive rather than die.
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Want to know how to get it exactly right?
Here’s how to harvest thyme, when to do it, and exactly how much to take.
If you need it, take it.
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you’ve got the option to also harvest before winter’s cooler temperatures begin to set in.
give a shot to harvest in the morning, which is when thyme’s flavors are their strongest.
Want more gardening tips?
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Carefully cut off a sprig either at the soil or above a leaf node.
You should always be judicious in how much you take from a thyme plant.
Too much, and you could damage or even kill the plant.
Tip
Drying thyme?
Bundle the sprigs as you go, aiming for 40 sprigs in each bundle.
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How Much Thyme Should You Harvest?
Harvesting thyme could mean a small cut or a big cut.
There should also be green leaves remaining after you’ve completed the harvest.
As it sits for longer, its flavorful oils begin to fade away.
That doesn’t necessarily mean you might’t use it, however, it won’t have the same oomph.
Here are four ways to store thyme.
This should keep your thyme for up to two weeks.
While the thyme won’t continue to grow, it will stay perky for up to a few months.
Wait until the cubes freeze, then pop them out to throw in your next chicken soup.
Dry Thyme
Your last option is also the longest-lasting.
Hang bunches of thyme upside down in a dark closet for two weeks.
Check the thyme regularly.
When it crumbles in your fingers, it’s ready.
Harvesting vs. Pruning Thyme: What’s the Difference?
While harvesting and pruning thyme both involve cutting back the plant, they are not the same.
This is typically done in the spring or summer and, ideally, thyme is harvested before it blooms.
If you cut just a few sprigs of thyme for cooking, then it should grow back quickly.
Start with the top stems and cut them off before they flower.
Thyme cuttings will root in waterorsoil, as long as they’ve been cut properly.
