Lemon thyme combines the aromatic warmth of thyme with a true lemon scent — making it the go-to for fish, chicken, and lemon-forward desserts. The variegated form 'Aureus' (gold-edged leaves) is especially ornamental. Culture identical to English thyme: full sun, lean soil, and excellent drainage.
Harvest before flowering for best flavour. Trim lightly after flowering to maintain a compact habit. Propagate from cuttings or layering in summer.
Root rot
Plants wilt, yellow, and stunt even in moist soil; lower stems and roots turn brown, soft, and mushy and the plant may collapse. Most common in heavy, wet, or poorly drained ground.
Improve drainage and stop overwatering, and never plant too deep. Lift and destroy badly affected plants along with the soil around the roots. Grow in raised or free-draining beds to prevent it returning.
Rust
Orange to brown raised pustules on the undersides of leaves, with yellow spotting on the upper surface. Heavy infections cause leaves to yellow and drop.
Remove and destroy infected leaves. Avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation. Apply a sulfur or copper-based fungicide if it spreads. Clear plant debris in fall.
Botrytis (grey mould)
Grey fuzzy mould on petals and stems, worst in cool wet conditions.
Remove affected parts immediately. Improve air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Apply copper fungicide if severe.