You've probably cooked with this herb at some point in the past, or at the very least, you've consumed a dish that had thyme. Thyme is frequently utilized in cooking, most frequently as a flavoring for sauces and soups. In addition to this, it may be utilized in the kitchen in a variety of other ways, such as by combining it with various other herbs to make potato or chicken meals. Growing thyme from seed is a possibility; however, growing thyme from cuttings can be an intriguing experience, and it does not even require you to own a thyme plant in order to do so.
Is It Possible to Replant Thyme Cuttings Directly Into the Soil?
Collecting your cuttings and simply planting them in the ground can (and can) work, but this method carries a greater risk of being unsuccessful. When people cultivate thyme and other herbs in this manner, they typically use potting mix or an material such as rockwool as the growing medium.
If you plant your cuttings in soil without first rehydrating them, there is a greater likelihood that they will rot instead of producing roots. If you do decide to try this, you should always take several cuttings so that you can improve the likelihood of your success.
Another disadvantage of this procedure is that it is impossible to tell whether or not the thyme cuttings you are using have already begun to root. They may have a healthy appearance on the surface, but the stem that is buried in the earth may already be beginning to rot or become infected.
If you root your cuttings in water, you will be able to determine with absolute certainty when the cuttings have successfully developed roots. Cuttings of thyme can still rot when they are submerged in water; however, there are techniques to lessen the likelihood of this happening, as I will explain in more detail below.
How To Plant Thyme Cuttings
Put some potting soil in a container and get it ready. The best potting mix is one of high quality because this will ensure that it is free of illnesses and pests. Choose a type of soil that has good drainage if you want to successfully grow thyme.
Make a hole in the soil of the appropriate size for each cutting, set the cutting in the hole to a depth that is approximately half that of the hole, and then gently push the garden soil back into position around the cutting until it is standing comfortably upright.
It is recommended that you use rooting hormone in order to hasten the process; however, thyme will frequently root in water or directly in the ground if the cutting is performed at the optimal period and the appropriate stem is selected for the cutting.
Care & Maintenance
During the time that the new thyme cuttings are in the process of taking root, you should store them in a warm location that is shielded from direct sunlight. Full light is ideal for mature thyme plants, but newer thyme plants should avoid it because it can be too harsh on their development.
Cuttings of thyme require a somewhat higher level of moisture than mature plants; yet, just like full-grown thyme, they are prone to root rot if they receive an excessive amount of watering.
It is highly recommended that you use a spray bottle to keep both the soil and the cutting just slightly damp, rather than completely flooding the soil.