When to Plant Thyme in Zone 5
Thymus vulgaris
Last updated: Apr 25, 2026 · Sources: USDA, NOAA, Cooperative ExtensionZone 5 Planting Schedule
Start Indoors
Apr 16
6–8 weeks before transplant
Transplant Out
May 14
After last frost (Apr 30)
Direct Sow
May 14
Directly in garden bed
First Harvest
Aug 14
75–90 days after planting
Season Ends
Sep 28
Before first frost (Oct 5)
Quick Facts
Sunlight
☀️ Full Sun
Water Needs
💧 Low
Spacing
12 inches apart
Planting Depth
0.125 inch
Min Soil Temp
60°F
Germination
14–21 days
Days to Maturity
75–90 days
Frost Tolerance
Moderate frost tolerance
Soil pH
6.0–8.0
Difficulty
Easy
Recommended for Zone 5
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Thyme Schedule — All Zones
| Zone | Start Indoors | Transplant | Direct Sow | Harvest Start | Harvest End |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 5 | Apr 16 | May 14 | May 14 | Aug 14 | Sep 28 |
| Zone 6 | Apr 1 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | Jul 30 | Sep 13 |
| Zone 7 | Mar 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | Jul 20 | Sep 3 |
| Zone 8 | Mar 6 | Apr 3 | Apr 3 | Jul 4 | Aug 18 |
| Zone 9 | Feb 14 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | Jun 14 | Jul 29 |
| Zone 10 | Jan 27 | Feb 24 | Feb 24 | May 27 | Jul 11 |
📚 Data Sources
Frost dates: NOAA Climate Normals 1991–2020, National Centers for Environmental Information.Hardiness zones: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, Agricultural Research Service.
Growing requirements: Cooperative Extension Services — NC State, Penn State, University of Florida IFAS.
Companion planting: Cornell University Cooperative Extension.
Data compiled from public agricultural sources. Always verify with your local extension office for micro-climate adjustments.