Creeping thyme plants are making waves as a fresh alternative to traditional grass lawn in yards with full sun. With its drought tolerant nature and low-growing habit, it’s catching the attention of homeowners tired of constant mowing and water bills.

It works great in poor soils and brings early pink flowers and white flowers that attract pollinators, so if you have a goal of transforming your yard for next year's #NoMowMay, look no further.

Plus, we've had it for years and love how it handles light foot traffic. It's even thought to help control soil conditions and erosion on slopes. Let’s break down why planting a creeping thyme lawn is becoming as trendy as other options, like clover lawns and dichondra.

What makes thyme better than turf grass?

Creeping thyme adapts well to well-drained soil and dry soil, perfect for those late spring dry spells. It stays green foliage year-round and needs only occasional trimming, unlike turf grass that demands heavy watering and frequent mowing.

When it does get mowed, it remains lush and soft.

“[It] thrives in both Northern and Southern zones,” shared Matthew Koch, Ph.D., Director of Biotechnology and Genetics at The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company. “[Creeping thyme also] spreads rapidly to cover ground efficiently, while suppressing weeds and reducing soil erosion on steep banks.”

Plus, yes, you can use it in recipes just as you would traditional culinary thyme.

How do you plant a creeping thyme lawn?

1. Choose a thyme variety like Elfin thyme, Woolly thyme, or Mother of Thyme.
2. Prep soil with organic matter. This is a good time to use organic compost mix!
3. Lay thyme plugs or use stem cuttings. We've propagated thyme many, many times, but if you can cut a transplant that includes a small root ball, those planting plugs will grow and spread faster.
4. Water. It'll need regular watering as it gets established, but then you can scale back on your watering frequency.
5. Trim stray woody stems after bloom to keep a dense growth habit. Over time, due to lawn mowing and foot traffic, it'll get thicker and thicker close to the ground surface.

Is thyme a good ground cover plant for erosion control?

Yes, and it thrives on a south-facing hill! It grips steep slopes, grows in all directions, and keeps soil intact, even when soil moisture is low. It supports soil health and thrives in a variety of soil types, including rocky soil.

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Why choose creeping thyme lawn instead of turf grass?

From landscape design to lawn alternatives, thyme isn't just for the herb garden: it’s drought tolerant, beautifully blooming, and helps with soil quality and stability. It weaves into rock gardens just as easily as it spreads into a sunny, turf lawn. It's even helpful at weed management because it grows so thick.

Plus, varieties like pink chintz thyme offer colorful cover.

Creeping thyme lawn isn’t perfect for every yard. It tolerates partial shade best and prefers well‑draining soil, not clay soil that struggles with soil drainage.

Once established as a groundcover plant, it'll simplify your lawn care routine and watering schedule forever.