Thyme thrives best in dry meadows or maquis, which refers to evergreen bush formations in the hot summer European Mediterranean region. Like many Mediterranean plants, thyme only needs a little water - waterlogging can be particularly dangerous.
How to care for thyme when watering?
Thyme should only be watered regularly during the first few weeks after planting. Afterwards it rarely needs water, except in prolonged heat and drought. Avoid waterlogging and do not water at midday to ensure optimal conditions.
Only water regularly immediately after planting
Garden thyme basically doesn't need to be watered at all; unless
a) You have just planted the plant orb) it has been very hot and dry for a long period of time.
Freshly planted thyme must first develop roots and literally dig into the ground. Until the plant has literally taken root, it needs to be watered regularly - then no more. Planted thyme can usually take care of itself due to its very deep and widely branched roots. Only potted thyme should be watered, but it must not be left moist. The right time to water is when the top layer of soil has already dried out. You can avoid waterlogging through appropriate drainage measures.
Tips & Tricks
If possible, avoid watering thyme (and other plants) at midday, as a large part of the water evaporates before the plant can absorb it.
