Are you growing thyme in Ohio, but don’t know when the best time to harvest them is?
Harvesting thyme is not as easy as it seems.
Here’s why:
- Thyme has a very short window when it can be harvested and still taste great.
So if you harvest them too early they may not be ready and taste bad. And if you harvest them too late they may become infected with mold, fungus, insects, etc., and become inedible.
Today, I’m going to teach you the ideal time to harvest thyme in Ohio:
- To Learn More About HOW to Grow Thyme, Check Out This GUIDE!
When Do I Harvest Thyme in Ohio?
As you may have already guessed, there are two main factors that determine when you should harvest your thyme: the physical features of the thyme & weather (time).
Harvest Thyme if They Look Like This!!!
The physical features of thyme are what most gardeners commonly rely on to determine if they are ready to be picked off the plant or not.
In general, you should harvest thyme if they have the following physical features:
- The leaves of thyme are wide, long, and dark green (or purple) in color and are at least 3 inches long.
Harvest Your Thyme During THIS Time of Year!!!
In general, you should harvest thyme:
- 28 to 35 days after starting thyme from seed
- Immediately after planting thyme in your garden
And no matter what, you should ALWAYS harvest your thym before the first frost of the year. Frost will immediately kill your thyme plant and make your thyme inedible.
For your reference, I have created this table for average frost dates for most major cities in Ohio. If your city is not listed below you can find its Last & First Frost Dates HERE.
Ohio Last & First Frost Dates
It should be noted that you should not overly rely on the first frost of the year. The average first frost of the year is only correct 30% of the time.
Instead, pay close attention to your local weather.
When you know a frost is coming you need to take action.
- If thyme are in pots, bring them inside
- If thyme is in the ground, cover them in burlap and hope they survive
- Pick all thyme.
If you want to learn WHEN to harvest ANY Vegetable in Ohio, head over to HERE and just type in the vegetable you want to grow.
