Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a perennial herb known globally for its aromatic leaves, which are a staple in culinary and medicinal traditions. This Mediterranean native is part of the mint family, Lamiaceae, characterized by its woody stems and small, fragrant foliage. While the leaves are the most recognized part of the plant, its reproduction depends on its minuscule seeds. Understanding the physical characteristics and origin of these seeds is the first step for anyone interested in propagating this herb.
Physical Appearance of Thyme Seeds
Thyme seeds are exceptionally small, often described as minute or dust-like. They are so tiny that a single gram of Thymus vulgaris seed can contain approximately 4,305 individual seeds, highlighting the difficulty in handling them for planting. The individual seeds are typically dark brown to black in color, often appearing as tiny specks against a lighter background. Their shape is generally ovoid or nutlet-shaped, characteristic of the mint family. Due to their compact size, well under one millimeter in length, they require careful attention during sowing to prevent uneven distribution.
Where Thyme Seeds Originate
Thyme seeds are the result of the plant’s flowering process, which typically occurs during the summer months. The herb produces numerous small, tubular flowers that range in color from white to pale purple, attracting a variety of pollinators. Following successful pollination, the flower structures mature into schizocarps, which are small, dry fruits that split apart. Within these schizocarps are the seeds, housed in small, dark brown nutlets. The seeds’ minute size makes collecting them from a home garden a challenging task, which is why most gardeners purchase commercially packaged seed.
Sowing Thyme Seeds for Growth
Successfully growing thyme from seed requires acknowledging their small size, which dictates the planting method. Because the seeds are minute, they must be surface-sown or only lightly covered with a thin layer of fine soil. The seed needs exposure to light to trigger germination, so burying it too deeply will prevent sprouting. Sowing should be done indoors about six to eight weeks before the last expected frost, using a sterile seed-starting mix. Maintaining the soil temperature between 15 and 21 degrees Celsius (60–70 degrees Fahrenheit) is optimal for encouraging growth, and germination can take between 14 and 28 days.