Photo: Thomas Mathis, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herb
Broad-leaved thyme: when and how to prune
Thymus pulegioides
Broad-leaved thyme is best pruned in April and September.
| Pruning months | April and September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–September |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Broad-leaved thyme: when to prune it?
A light pruning in April and a cut back after flowering, in September.
Broad-leaved thyme: how to prune it?
- In April, cut off dead or damaged twigs.
- After flowering, in September, cut off the faded tips and about a third of the new shoots.
- Never cut into old, bare wood: it does not shoot again.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: April and September. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Broad-leaved thyme flowers in June–September, 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.
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: Do not prune too late in autumn, as new shoots are easily frosted.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Broad-leaved thyme · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.