(Thymus Vulgaris)
Thyme is a perennial native to the Mediterranean. It is hardy to zone five, but is prone to disease and insect infestation in the deep south. Southern gardeners may want to grow thyme
indoors in containers so that conditions may be carefully controlled. Most varieties grow to only six to twelve inches in height, and they make an attractive edging for the perennial
border. Leaves are dark gray-green in color, and pale pink flowers bloom at the tips of the stems in summer.
 
You can start thyme from seeds to get a wider selection of varieties. Most nurseries carry transplants in spring and summer. It prefers a sandy, dry soil and plenty of sun. If your soil is acidic, add some lime. If you live in a very cold climate, protect the plants in winter by mulching heavily. Once established, the only care will be regular pruning of the plants and removal of dead flowers and pruning to remove old wood.

Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested for fresh use throughout the summer, but the flavor is best just before flowering. To dry, cut the stems just as the flowers start to open and hang in small bunches. Harvest sparingly the first year.
 
Uses: Fresh and dried thyme is used as a traditional culinary seasoning. The essential oil is also extracted from the herb and used in both perfumery and flavoring applications. The essential oil has useful antioxidant activity. Thyme is also regarded as a medicinal herb with antispasmodic, expectorant and flatulence-reducing action. Thymol, a major constituent of
the oil, has antibacterial, antifungal and anthelmintic activity. The dried herb is used to give flavor to meat and meat products, condiments, relishes, soups and gravies. Thyme is an ingredient in mixed herbs. Lemon thyme is often used to flavor fish dishes. The essential oil of thyme is mainly used in flavoring applications in the processed food industry. It is also used to fragrance soaps and detergents where its characteristic fresh, antiseptic aroma is desired. Thyme produces a distinctive honey that is beginning to find niche markets in Europe and Asia.

 

Highlights:

  

Used to flavour patés and terrines, thick vegetable soups, tomato and wine based sauces and in marinades for pork or game.

 
Thyme compliments poultry in stuffings.  
Combine Garlic and Thyme, spread over lamb before cooking.  

Sprinkle over chicken before grilling or pan frying.

 
   

RECIPES: (Click below for individual Recipes)
bullet Thyme Meat Loaf
bullet Cranberry and Port Sauce with Lemon Thyme
bullet Chicken Breasts Roasted With Honey, Pine Nuts and Thyme Recipe
bullet Pasta: Sauteed Spinach and Chick Peas with Lemon and Thyme