Photo: Forest & Kim Starr, CC BY 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herb
Lemon thyme: when and how to prune
Thymus × citriodorus
Lemon thyme is best pruned in April and July–August.
| Pruning months | April and July–August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–July |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Lemon thyme: when to prune it?
A light trim in April, and after flowering in July–August.
Lemon thyme: how to prune it?
- After flowering, cut off the faded flower stems and a third of the new growth.
- Never cut into the bare, old wood: it regrows poorly from there, or not at all.
- In April, snip off frosted or withered tips and shape the plant into a neat mound.
- Regular picking also acts as pruning and keeps it compact.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: April and July–August. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Lemon thyme flowers in June–July, when it attracts bees and butterflies.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Caution: Do not prune late in autumn: the young shoots would not have time to harden off before winter.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Lemon thyme · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.