Thyme is a versatile perennial herb known for its earthy flavor and aromatic qualities. It’s a staple in many culinary dishes, adding depth to soups, stews, meats, and vegetables.
Not only is thyme a favorite in the kitchen, but it’s also a great addition to an edible or herb garden. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects. If you’re growing thyme, you might wonder: when can I harvest thyme? How do I harvest and store it properly? This article has got you covered!
When To Harvest Thyme?
Thyme is frost and drought-tolerant, and relatively low-maintenance once established. However, as thyme plants age, they tend to become more woody, requiring severe cutting back in the spring and summer to prevent the buildup of unproductive woody tissue.
- Thyme can be harvested at any stage of growth, but it is best to wait until the plant is well-established. The leaves should be a vibrant green color, and the plant should be full and bushy, at least about 6 inches high and 6 inches wide.
- You can harvest thyme throughout its growing season, but it’s best to cut it just before the plant starts to flower when the essential oil content of the leaves is at its peak. If you only need a sprig or two for cooking or tea, you can harvest anytime during the growing season. However, for larger amounts to dry, I recommend harvesting twice each season: once in early spring and again in early summer, right before it flowers.
- When your thyme flowers, it adds a lovely splash of color to your garden, and pollinators love them. However, if you use thyme for cooking, it’s best to pinch off the flower buds as soon as they appear (and yes, you can eat them—thyme flowers are edible!). This encourages the plant to produce more leaves instead of going to seed, extending your harvest into late fall.
- Like any other herb, the best time to harvest thyme is in the morning after the dew has dried but before the sun gets too hot. This is when the essential oils are most concentrated in the leaves.
How to Harvest Thyme Properly?
How you harvest thyme depends on what you are using it for. Below are the steps I use to harvest thyme in my garden:
- For a Few Sprigs of Thyme: Use sharp scissors or pruners to cut young, tender thyme branches about five to six inches from the top growth, just above a leaf node. Leave the woody stems intact.
- For a Large Harvest: Use pruners to cut all the way down to the bottom of the plant, but keep at least 5 inches of the plant intact.
- Harvest thyme whenever it becomes leggy. The more you harvest it, the more it will keep growing and maintain a compact shape.
Storing Thyme
Once you have harvested your thyme, you will want to store it properly to ensure it stays fresh and flavorful. Here are some tips on how to store thyme:
Storing Fresh Thyme
To store fresh thyme, place the stems in a glass of water and keep them away from direct sunlight for immediate use. You can also store thyme in your fridge for up to 2 weeks by wrapping the sprigs in a damp paper towel and placing them in a plastic bag or other container. If you notice the thyme starting to yellow, brown, or develop mold or an off odor, it’s time to toss it out.
Drying Thyme
Drying thyme is a great way to preserve it for later use. Simply tie a bunch of thyme sprigs together with rubber bands and hang them upside down in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area. Allow the thyme to dry for 1 to 2 weeks. Once completely dry, remove the leaves from the stems and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 years. To maximize the flavor, crush the leaves just before using.
Freezing Thyme
Another option for storing thyme is to freeze it. Simply remove the leaves from the stems and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thyme can be frozen either whole or chopped. You can use frozen thyme directly from the freezer in most recipes.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to label your thyme with the date it was harvested or stored. Properly stored thyme can last for several months. For the drying method, I recommend using it within 6 months. If you want to use it longer, crush a bit in your hand and smell it. If the aroma is still good, it’s fine to use; otherwise, it’s time to discard it and prepare a new batch. Happy harvesting!
