What is Holding Back This Thyme?

last year

I have two identical Thyme plants purchased at the same time, planted in different locations. The first plant is in a composted bark soil with nitrogen added, and a mulch layer on top. That plant is growing at a very health clip. The second plant is in the same bark soil mixed with about 60% clay loam soil, and on top is a thick wood mulch layer. The second plant appears to be in trouble and is dying back slowly.

What are the likely causes to be holding back the second plant? I am thinking the clay loam soil may be retaining too much moisture. But it could also be a pH issue as the second bed has a Camellia and receives a more acidic fertilizer.

Featured Answer

floral_uk z.8/9 SW UK

last year

My guess would be all your guesses. Thyme is native to fast draining, alkaline or neutral soils. I never cease to be amazed how much fiddling about goes into your container gardening and I wonder why you don't just grow stuff in the ground?

Thyme shouldn't need mulch, fertiliser or irrigation.

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Comments (8)

westes Zone 9b California SF Bay
Original Author
last year
@floral_uk z.8/9 SW UK That's a strange comment to make when I pointed out the container plant is growing like a weed and the plant that is in more native soil is dying.
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marmiegard_z7b
last year
I don’t put much if any mulch around thyme or rosemary. Especially not “ thick mulch”. But don’t know if that’s the issue there.
westes Zone 9b California SF Bay thanked marmiegard_z7b
floral_uk z.8/9 SW UK
last year
I have reread the post several times and do not see any reference to one plant being in the ground and another in a container.
westes Zone 9b California SF Bay thanked floral_uk z.8/9 SW UK
callirhoe123
last year
Thyme want excellent drainage. Looks like your inground plant is not getting that.
westes Zone 9b California SF Bay thanked callirhoe123
gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9)
last year
Clay and thyme is a deadly combination! Thyme wants very lean, fast draining soil and full sun. No mulch, no added fertilization and minimal water.
westes Zone 9b California SF Bay thanked gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9)
annpat
last year
Were the two planted in different mediums as a trial?
westes Zone 9b California SF Bay thanked annpat
westes Zone 9b California SF Bay
Original Author
last year
@annpat No trial. I just had multiple plants and looked for places to use them.