Low-growing perennial groundcover with tiny aromatic leaves and masses of small pink-purple flowers in summer. Creeping thyme forms spreading mats, tolerates dry soil once established, and works well between stepping stones, along bed edges, and in sunny areas where a low permanent cover is wanted. Flowers attract many small pollinating insects.

When to sow: Sow in spring or early fall. Seed is tiny and seedlings develop slowly, so keeping the seedbed evenly moist during establishment is especially important.

Management: This is a permanent groundcover rather than a cover crop that is terminated each season. Shear after flowering if desired to keep growth compact. It performs best in sunny, well-drained locations and does not like persistently wet soil.