Thymus species/Thyme Species Guide
Thymes are commonly seen as accent or accessory plants. Often Thymus will be found growing with a large number of very thin 'trunks' emanating from the rootbase; rarely it is possible to find specimens with a single trunk thick enough to warrant use as an individual bonsai specimen.
Ease of Cultivation 9/10 Suitablity and Ease for Bonsai Styling 7/10
Almost all species are suitable for use as bonsai and potential should be determined by foliage and flower colour; leaf-size is rarely larger than 10mm.
Position Outdoor tree only. Full sun, Thymes are fully hardy but need frost protection from temperatures below -5°C if planted in small pots.
Watering As Thymes are by nature minute they are commonly
planted in tiny pots for display purposes; small pots hold a small body
of soil and therefore water and can be liable to dry out very quickly
in hot weather.
However it should be noted that Thymes strongly dislike permanently wet
soil and should never be overwatered.
Repotting Annually at any time though Spring is preferable. Use a basic well-drained soil mix, Thymes prefer an alkaline soil (strongly disliking acid) and the addition of a little lime is beneficial to their health.
Pruning Continually clip to shape. Prune hard after flowering.
Propagation Sow seed outside in Spring. Divide in Spring. Take semi-ripe cuttings in mid- or late-summer or softwood cuttings in early summer.
Pests and diseases Adverse reaction to acidic chemicals/fertilisers
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