Every day I see people all wound-up so tight, I am amazed folks can even walk or breath. drop them, or poop them. Of course, we don’t recommend the use of Roundup or any chemical pesticide. https://www.planetnatural.com/product-category/organic-gardening/lawn-landscape/weed-control/. These reliable plants arealways there when you need them, but that’s not all. Combine and spray. Facebook. Thyme has got an unignorably strong aroma, one which bears a slight similarity … Shade Garden .. As long as you’re … You didn't mention soaker hoses. Perennial spreading plants, such as moss and sedum, can fill in spaces between pavers. The question is, how did it jump from spot to spot, i.e., how does it spread? I want to install a thyme lawn but there are so many different thymes. That’s why I’ve curated my research to provide you with micro clover lawn pros and cons (so you don’t have to). Not once in his article did he say it was a preferred method (which we all know its not) I personally, and I’m sure many others will agree, that the article is well written and informative. The easiest way is to use multiple applications of Roundup. And should be left at that. Thymus vulgaris. Chamomile lawn plants thrive in full sun, but will tolerate dappled shade. A natural remedy for killing unwanted grass/weeds is: white vinegar, Dawn Dish Soap and Epsom Salt. The other downside is the labor it takes to get your thyme in the ground. Can I fertilize it? Another possibility is to add some Corsican mint – which has tiny leaves and forms dense carpets. I planted Elfin Thyme in place of my backyard lawn. I would like leaves early in the spring and late into the fall. If you have a croquet court-sized yard (in other words, large) you might want to consider planting only part of it in thyme to start. This article states the advantages and disadvantages of … I read this article for the first time like 5 years ago. Article by Carmen Spradley. Here are some otherreasons to have an indoor herb garden. Which mulch you choose is, again, partly budget, partly aesthetics, and partly ease of installation. Thanks so much for your great response. We are planning on placing some boulders and smaller rocks around along with some tall grasses. They helped us clear a whole area of field to plant veg and are now busy on another patch. What is the best type of creeping thyme to have foliage as much of the year as possible? In our research trials, mowing the lawn very short (1.5 in.) There is no reason to use this awful poison. If you buy culinary thyme it can be up to 10 inches tall. But we’re not in this for easy, we’re in it to protect ourselves, our families, our loved ones, our pets etc.”. Eventually (ideally), the plants will fill in and mulch themselves. What barriers do we install to keep it from spreading where we don’t want it? It smells great when i mow. Why would it be necessary to even suggest this as a possible remedy to eradicating the lawn. I planted elphin thyme in between my stone pavement and it is having trouble with weed growth. Wow, I love the idea of a lawn made of Thyme. How to do it? I’m in zone 7b and would like to do it in the fall. If you’re looking to replace your thirsty grass with something more xeric, consider thyme. Good point…means as far north as zone 4…thanks for the smart edit! Red Creeping Thyme – This variety of creeping thyme also goes by the moniker, “coccineus.” This variety of creeping thyme bursts into bloom with magnificent magenta flowers. I am appalled that you would recommend using RoundUp!! I’m in the UK but I just found a packet of 3500 creeping thyme seeds for £0.99. I remember it specifically because of all the stupid comments. The tree is a Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum). We told you it was work, didn’t we? 16 Spreading Plants for Paved Areas. Is there something I need to do to the soil to make it less acidic? If conditions are dry, water the thyme in pots thoroughly before placing in the ground, then water your new thyme lawn thoroughly, to a depth of at least four inches. The author is saying don’t use roundup. Or is that what you mean by doesn't compete well with other plants? The reason you've seen advice to cover the entire plant during the winter is because the stems can become desiccated and die off in winter if there is no snow cover or shade. I think the best way to do it is to lay down cardboard/newspaper over top of the present lawn, then add mulch/soil/etc. Wondering if this is the right grass for your lawn? Would be interested in what you think might work and pros/cons to what I've already listed. Mediterranean Creeping Thyme: This plant produces lots of deep pink flowers in big clusters. Is there any weed killer that is available other than pulling the weeds which are now to numerous to take out or that won’t kill the thyme? Of course, we don’t recommend the use of Roundup or any chemical pesticide. I have planted thyme seeds in my lawn, without digging up the grass, and the thyme seems to be taking over the grass. JUST KIDDING!!!!!!! Thank you for any suggestion…JP. Digging it up is a poison-less way to do it but a lot of work. Thyme smells great and it is fun to walk on. Thanks JT. Article from gardening.about.com. If you use microsprays, each microspray will cover a wider area than a drip emitter but you will have the nozzles sticking up around your space and as they get knocked around, you'll need to keep them in alignment. Hi! I did not use black plastic before planting now I have clover and several weeds that are killing the thyme. I am trying to find out the best way to keep it weed free if that’s possible. While flowering lawn weeds are often seen as a nuisance, they can ... and creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum). Thanks! As for cost you can literally take one stock and plant in a small container which will become a plug sized plant in a few weeks. My husband asks :) "obviously there in a huge difference in cost between plants and seeds. 1) do all varieties of thyme bloom purple? It’s also wise to add bone meal or rock phosphate before planting. Being a member of the mint family, Creeping Charlie has been viewed as a positive herb medicinally and in cooking for centuries. 1. I’d appreciate any knowledge about this from those of you8 who may have come up against this or other pests. It needs water, too, and its roots snake through the area under its canopy and well beyond. 831. Mainly for the idea (and I’m completely with you on this) that there will be no need to mow it . They simply dip their protected hand in the concentrated solution and grab ahold of the unwanted vegetation. Use to prevent crabgrass, dandelions and more! We are separated from them by concrete but how much risk is there to their lawn if I cover ours in thyme? The paper will eventually decompose (we like to say “compost”) and at that point the grass will have decomposed as well. Will it hold the soil as well as grass? May 23, 2014 - Explore J S's board "Creeping Thyme" on Pinterest. Wood mulch is readily available at garden centers, big box stores and landscape supply outfits and is pretty easy to spread. Mainly because: I want a lawn my pets can safely munch own. I live in fort Lauderdale and am in the process of putting down new compost right now. Creeping thyme is a maintenance free, hardy, evergreen edible herb with aromatic foliage and attractive white flowers in Summer. Although thyme sounds like a wonderful grass replacement, please do NOT suggest people use ROUNDUP to remove grass from their existing lawn. It says to mulch in winter. Another tried and true way to remove turf is to smother it in black plastic. But you’re not in this for easy, you’re in it to protect yourself, your loved ones, and the environment at large from harmful sprays. Mulch helps plants retain moisture. Learn which plants are appropriate for paved areas. don't plant the thyme through the turf - unless you know for sure the turf is completely dead and you are just leaving the dead grass in place to avoid erosion. I can’t believe how many readers can’t see you are kidding about how to get rid of grass. With that said, we know several customers that will use a surgical glove under a cloth glove to make applications. I agree, everyone needs to calm down in regards to the roundup, I’ve used it (on my fathers advice I will never use it again there is safer methods) but and I will repeat BUT the fact is the author of this article mentioned that product is because most new people to gardening have been bombarded by television would immediately think of that for killing weeds, so the fact that he has explained in detail more than one other method to rid your self of grass should be complemented. Is anyone concerned about thyme becoming invasive in rural environments? Any suggestions as to what other ground cover would work well with the creeping thyme? The thyme filled in nicely. 4) How does this compare with a clover lawn or white star creeper lawn? One ore two weeds pop up but if I pull them the day I see them their is never a problem and I don’t spend more than 5 minutes a week. on top of the cardboard/newspaper and plant in that. Please do your research before suggesting anyone use this. A non-selective, post-emergence formula for ALL unwanted vegetation. Zoysia is a type of creeping grass commonly found in Australia, Asia, and … As far as cultural I have only seen deep rose and white. After all, the sentence that follows makes it clear what we think. Certified organic Ground Cover Thymes for sale at Mountain Valley Growers It’s an effective way to minimize drift and prevent damage to the plants you want, especially in confined areas. In fact I have, as a child, memorable experience and one I’d care never to repeat. Thyme may be drought tolerant but it needs water to get established. Since thyme doesn't like competing plants and we would like to plant maybe flox or some other ground cover with the thyme in areas close to the rocks and some natural tall grasses. If you’re looking to replace your thirsty grass with something more xeric, consider thyme. Please rethink your suggestion and post an apology after you learn how toxic it is to the soil, the bees, the butterflies, the bats, and the birds. By Nature…the seeds blow, or birds etc. This creeping thyme spreads quickly and can reach diameters of up to 24-inches. But make a path with stones or pavers for high traffic areas. A SAFE alternative to RoundUp® that's trusted by cities and municipalities. First of all it is a Monsanto product. When you’re planting plugs of thyme 6 to 12 inches apart, you can burn up a lot of cash fast. Even when it rained this spring the wind would dry out the area pretty quick. The reason you've seen advice to cover the entire plant during the winter is because the stems can become desiccated and die off in winter if there is no snow cover or … Lawn And Garden. I live on Long Island in New York State (Zone 7a). It acts as a barrier between the ground and sunlight, slowing down evaporation. No Mowing – Thyme forms a solid mat of foliage, with no need for mowing or trimming. The Pros and Cons of Using Mulch Pros. (Great, well written and informative article bt the way!). It's a low maintenance plant that can take a lot of abuse too! Look no further than Thymus Serpyllum seeds to grow a wonderfully hardy ground cover directly in the garden or border! the area is 2500 sq ft. When you’re planting plugs of thyme 6 to 12 inches apart, you can burn up a lot of cash fast. Yes, it’s a bit crazy that people have such strong reactions and judgements after reading half a sentence!! We recently bought a house in San Jose, CA (hardiness zone 9b) and we have a new yard (meaning it’s just dirt, we have to plant whatever we want on it). Dinosaurs have since gone extinct, while moss is still thriving! The easiest way is to use multiple applications of some nasty herbicide like Roundup®. 3. If we leave grass in place can we just dig a hole where we plant to start and will the thyme spread? “through Zone 4” — does that mean from 1 South to 4? By. My husband takes care of our limited lawn areas. A good way to figure out what you have, whether you should amend your soil, and with how much is by getting a soil test to start. Can you walk on thyme, like you could turf grass? Sorry I had to stop reading the article at the mere mention of Roundup. Which is better, starting from seeds or is that not a good idea, or transplant? 3) I’m not familiar with the pattern of growth. I “got it.” but did have to read it twice to make sure. Related Post: Types of Grass in Missouri. ), he is taking some convincing regarding the lawn. It's a lot to think about but I hope this has helped; good luck with your project! You can’t just yank up sod, leaving behind roots that will result in another layer of grass popping up. See more ideas about creeping thyme, ground cover, ground cover plants. Where I live it’s gets hot hot in the summer and we are in a terrible drought. It can be used in light traffic areas or around stepping stones, which allows its fragrance and tiny flowers to add character to walkways. Dicondra and thyme … Great idea- except for the Round Up! If you turn off the spigot on the area to conserve water, you will also be turning off the spigot for the tree.6) Mulch can be anything used to suppress weeds and moderate soil temperatures while your new planting still shows a lot of exposed soil. I also have to take out the old mostly dead grass and living weeds and rototill the soil. Thank you, JT. Was just thinking the same thing Gloria.. There are downsides to putting in a thyme lawn. This low maintenance turf alternative requires no mowing, fertilizing, thatching or watering. Creeping Thyme. https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/xeriscaping-retrofit-your-yard-7-234/, https://www.denvergov.org/content/denvergov/en/trash-and-recycling/seasonal-programs/mulch-giveaway---compost-sale.html, Colorado Master Gardener - Denver County Extension, https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/ground-cover-plants-7-400/. It can be expensive. WhatsApp. Pros and Cons As with dandelions , there can be some positive benefits to keeping creeping Charlie around if you find you either can’t or don’t want to remove it from your lawn. But you’re not in this for easy, you’re in it to protect yourself, your loved ones, and the environment at large from harmful sprays. Creeping thyme is one of those easy to grow plants that survive nicely with little or no care. It may take as long as a full season — 3 months — to completely kill the grass. The thyme stayed green while frozen (slight browning), sage stayed green (moderate browning) and the jasmine vines on the fence stayed green all winter despite freezing. A thyme lawn made from the soft yet tough species and varieties of creeping thyme might just be the most wonderful thing to ever happen to your garden. Yes indeed, sheet mulching the current lawn is a good way to go. What type of watering is best, drip, soaker hose or...? Also, will woolly thyme attract bees? I live in zone 9b (Northern California, Los Gatos area). I loved the article… I’m zone 5 btw, are there any varieties that could work for me? Which thymes would you recommend? Pros . Be cautious about bare feet when its flowering-bees are super-attracted to it. Roundup its so bad for the environment just plow your lawn and plant the thyme — no need for poison. It will kill off anything it touches so be careful around other garden plants you want to keep. Water evenly to soak the mulch and press the paper against the grass. Herbs year round.An indoor herb garden gives the gardeners afflicted with winter malaise an opportunity to lovingly tend to more plants and enjoy herbs year r… Or does that mean, “as far north as 4”? I’d like one that does not have many or any blooms, just be green, like a lawn. Considering how many people have a problem with reading comprehension and might get the wrong impression, I would highly suggest editing your comment about using Roundup. Also, it is on a good slope. You didn't say this, but I am assuming your existing lawn is Kentucky Bluegrass which is the typical turf in Denver. Creeping thyme and wooly thyme are both classes as “ornamental” herbs rather than culinary . When tilling in these amendments, do it to a depth of only six inches or so; not the standard 12 inches (thyme is a shallow rooter). There are MANY different varieties and it overwinters in sub zero with no die-out. Ask an Expert is made up of groups and individual experts. Soaker hoses - on the plus side, they are inexpensive and malleable; on the minus side, they can distribute water unevenly, crack over time and sometimes feel like you are wrestling a snake.2. How to Get Rid of Creeping Thyme. You’ll need to kill off all the grass where you intend to plant first. I’ve been looking everywhere for advice on this and have come up with nothing! Browse 200 photos of Creeping Thyme. Thyme is an ideal grass alternative. And we didn’t think our slightly tongue-in-cheek suggestion that Roundup was the lazy man’s way out would be taken seriously. If not removed, KBG will act as a weed in your thyme and because it is rhizomatous, it will spread and take over.2) Soils in Denver usually tend to be fairly rich in minerals but lacking in nitrogen and either sandy or clay. Thoroughly remove all the weeds in the planting area beforehand, as chamomile does not compete well with many weeds. Micro Clover Lawn Pros and Cons. They require light soil, such as sandy loam, and do not do well in dry, stone-filled soils or heavy clay . It spreads up to 18 inches, grows best in full sun, and attracts plenty of butterflies and bees. If you happen to have chickens and do have time they can help you clear the grass. But you’re not in this for easy, you’re in it to protect yourself, your loved ones, and the environment at large from harmful sprays. My question is: it is spreading slowly, how can I get it to spread quicker? You have some wiggle room (in school, we used to say 'when do you want impact?!'). My suggestion: While the easiest way would be to use multiple applications of some nasty herbicide like Roundup, we are certainly not in this for easy ways that do nothing to protect yourself, your loved ones, and the environment at large from harmful sprays. I did, and understood immediately what you were getting at regarding your “tongue-in-cheek suggestion about using Roundup”. Hope this helps. This means more water for the plants, less watering for the homeowner. Would thyme be a good potty-lawn for her? Can be used as a lawn substitute and is great planted between pavers and stepping stones, with the distinct fragrance releasing once … We’ve also written several articles against RoundUp and Monsanto in general. My question is: will it spread to the neighbors? Of course this applies only to some people. Also, it must be solid and dense, no more than 2″ high, and require very little water. Is that not an acceptable watering method for the thyme and would that suffice for the tree? Yes, once it’s established, but not too much, especially when dry. This can be a slow and difficult process. The cardboard layer will kill the grass/weeds, and so much better for the earth than Roundup. Thanks again for your amazing font of knowledge! If you do dig — say you have a small space that will be manageable — dig deeply and make sure you remove any trace of roots. Weigh it down with rocks or mulch. That toxic chemical has nothing to do with “Planet Natural” and is the furthest thing from organic! Rainwater is trapped in the fibers, keeping the ground underneath wet a little longer. 1. Paula, did you receive a response. I am installing a thyme lawn. I even did everything wrong, did not fully kill lawn,(just dumped mulch and planted directly in it) spread calcium hydroxide lime directly on top of the soil (no tilling) and have strong freezing winds and poor soggy soil and it is growing in fine. Here's the link to the CSU Soils lab: http://www.soiltestinglab.colostate.edu/ 3) How quickly your thyme fills in depends in part on how closely you plant the individual plants; if you plant them close together (ie. Here’s just a few: https://www.planetnatural.com/herbicide-mothers-milk/ The competition is grass, daises, painters brush, and while theses are wonderful, they don’t last and wish the thyme would take over. 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