Creeping thyme, also known as Thymus serpyllum, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. It is commonly used in landscaping due to its low-growing habit and aromatic foliage. Creeping thyme can be propagated through various methods such as seed, division or stem cuttings.
In this blog post, we will discuss how to propagate creeping thyme using stem cuttings.
Materials required for propagation
Before starting the propagation process, it is essential to gather all the necessary materials. You will require:
– A sharp pair of garden shears or scissors
– Rooting hormone
– Small containers filled with potting soil mix
– Watering can or mist sprayer
Selecting appropriate cutting materials
The best time for propagating creeping thyme through stem cuttings is during late spring or early summer when new growth is emerging. Look for healthy stems that are free from diseases and pests with at least 2-3 pairs of leaves on them.
Taking Cuttings
Cut off about 4 inches long stem just below where a pair of leaves meet using a clean pair of scissors/shears. Make sure that you don’t damage any part while taking the cutting which will affect further growth. Once you have your desired number of cuttings ready; remove lower leaves up leaving only two sets near top of each cutting (keep some good looking leafs). Dip these cuts ends into rooting hormone powder/liquid making sure it evenly coated on them.
Planting Stem Cuttings
Fill small-sized pots with well-draining soil mix suitable for herbs such as potting soil mixed with perlite in equal parts (gives good drainage). Insert the lower end/cut portion of each cutting into prepared hole around one inch deep after shaking off excess rooting hormone from it so there’s no lump formation down/piling over one another inside jars making sufficient space between two plants so they won’t touch/overlap. Firm the soil around cuttings with your fingers and water lightly.
Caring for Your New Plants
After planting, keep your new creeping thyme plants in a warm location that has bright indirect light but avoid direct sunlight which can hurt newly transplanted herbs. Keep the soil moist by watering regularly so it doesn’t dry out completely especially during hot weather when evaporation very high; you can also use mist spraying method to keep them hydrated and prevent waterlogging at same time. Avoid overwatering as this may lead to root rot formation.
Once they grow bigger (around 3-4 inches tall) start fertilizing using organic granular or liquid fertilizer appropriate for herbs twice a month till end of summer/fall season depending on climate conditions where you live since different regions have different temperature/humidity level affecting plant growth rate.
Conclusion
Propagating creeping thyme through stem cuttings is an easy and cost-effective way of multiplying this beautiful herb. By following the steps outlined above, anyone can propagate their own creeping thyme plants without any hassles! With patience, care & attention – these younglings will soon become mature sprawling carpets like that you see in garden magazines/catalogs creating both visual appeal and lovely fragrance by releasing essential oils from its leaves making our surroundings even more refreshing than before!
