Troubleshooting
Thyme problems — and how to fix them
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Woody bare centres
Plants exhaust themselves in 4-5 years; replace from cuttings.
Yellow leaves after winter
Wet feet; lift and divide into grittier soil.
Powdery mildew
Improve air movement and avoid overhead watering.
Loss of flavour
Too much shade or over-fertilising.
Prevent thyme problems before they start
Most thyme issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Thyme problems — FAQ
Why is my thyme woody bare centres?
Plants exhaust themselves in 4-5 years; replace from cuttings.
Why is my thyme yellow leaves after winter?
Wet feet; lift and divide into grittier soil.
Why is my thyme powdery mildew?
Improve air movement and avoid overhead watering.
Why is my thyme loss of flavour?
Too much shade or over-fertilising.