Transplanting thyme involves carefully moving an established plant or section of a plant to a new location. For creeping varieties, a safe and effective method focuses on dividing rooted sections.
Understanding Thyme Transplanting
Thyme is a relatively hardy herb, but like any plant, transplanting requires care to minimize stress. While different methods exist depending on the thyme variety and its growth habit (e.g., upright vs. creeping), a particularly effective approach for mat-forming types like creeping thyme involves division.
Safest Method for Creeping Thyme (Based on Reference)
Based on horticultural practices, the safest approach for transplanting creeping thyme that has spread and rooted into the soil is through careful division.
Step-by-Step Guide
Here's a breakdown of the process for transplanting rooted sections of creeping thyme:
- Choose the Right Time: Transplanting is often best done in the spring or early fall when temperatures are moderate.
- Identify Rooted Sections: Look for areas of the thyme mat that have sent roots down into the soil. These sections will be more likely to survive transplanting.
- Prepare Your Tool: Ensure you have a sharp-edged trowel or knife ready. A sharp tool makes clean cuts and minimizes damage to the roots and plant.
- Carve Out Sections: Use the sharp-edged trowel or knife to carve out sections of the mat of creeping thyme that has rooted into the soil. Aim for sections that are large enough to have a good root ball.
- Handle Unrooted Sections: If a section of the mat you are looking at does not have roots attached, leave it in place and attached to the main plant. This allows it time to establish roots. It will send roots into the soil in time. Only transplant the rooted sections.
- Prepare the New Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the root ball of the section you are transplanting.
- Plant the Section: Gently place the carved-out, rooted section into the prepared hole. Backfill with soil, ensuring the plant is at the same depth as it was previously.
- Water Thoroughly: Water the newly transplanted section immediately after planting to help settle the soil and hydrate the roots. Continue to water regularly until the plant is established.
Key Considerations
- Roots are Crucial: The success of this method relies entirely on transplanting sections that have already rooted into the soil.
- Sharp Tools Matter: Using a sharp tool ensures clean cuts, which helps the plant recover faster.
- Location, Location, Location: Thyme thrives in sunny, well-drained locations. Choose the new site carefully.
By following this method, particularly the focus on transplanting rooted sections, you can successfully propagate and move your creeping thyme plants.
