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When to plant Thyme in Lowndes County, GA

Plant Thyme in Lowndes County, between March 10 and March 24 — the only viable window. Zone 9a's short season (268 frost-free days) rules out a fall crop.

When to Plant Thyme in Lowndes County, GA

Thyme

Thyme is a low-growing perennial herb with tiny, aromatic leaves and a warm, earthy flavor. It is one of the most versatile culinary and medicinal herbs.

Lowndes County, Georgia is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 3 and the first fall frost is November 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 268 days.

At an elevation of 396 feet, Lowndes County receives approximately 57.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Thyme may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Thyme, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Thyme root diseases.

Lowndes County, GA (Zone 9a) Long season
268 days
Last Spring Frost March 3
268 growing days
First Fall Frost November 26

Lowndes County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

5.6-6.5

Drainage

Well Drained

Monthly Watering Guide for Thyme

Thyme needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.

Month Thyme Needs Rainfall You Supplement Action
Jan 5.4" 0" ❄️ Dormant
Feb 4.4" 0" ❄️ Dormant
Mar 4.3" 5.6" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Apr 4.3" 3.9" 0.4" 💧 Light watering
May 4.3" 4.5" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Jun 4.3" 4.8" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Jul 4.3" 5.7" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Aug 4.3" 5.2" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Sep 4.3" 4.6" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Oct 4.3" 4.3" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Nov 4.3" 4.4" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Dec 4.6" 0" ❄️ Dormant

Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Lowndes County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.

Thyme Planting Timeline — Lowndes County, GA

Thyme Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors March 10 Mar 10 – Mar 24
Harvest May 19 May 19 – Jul 21

Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
January
February
March Transplant Outdoors
April
May Harvest
June Harvest
July Harvest
August
September
October
November
December

Growing Conditions

☀️ Sun

Full Sun (6-8+ hours)

💧 Water

Low — drought tolerant

📅 Days to Maturity

70–90 days

🧪 Soil pH

Needs 6–8 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 9a

📆 Growing Season

268 days in Lowndes County

Growing Tips for Lowndes County

Start from seed, cuttings, or divisions. Plant in well-drained, lean soil. Prune lightly after flowering. Replace plants every 3-4 years when they become woody.

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Thyme in Lowndes County, GA?

Lowndes County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of March 3. Plan your Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.

What planting zone is Lowndes County, GA?

Lowndes County, Georgia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 3 and first fall frost is November 26.

When should I plant Thyme in Lowndes County, GA?

In Lowndes County, GA, plant Thyme after the last frost (around March 3) and before the first frost (around November 26). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is Lowndes County, GA for Thyme?

Lowndes County sits in USDA Zone 9a. Thyme grows reliably in zones 4a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Thyme grow in Lowndes County's climate?

Yes — Thyme grows well in Lowndes County's temperate climate. Lowndes County averages a 268-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 3 and first frost around November 26.

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Your Lowndes County Garden Planner — Free

A 22-page printable planner built for Lowndes County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for Lowndes County, GA. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: July 2026.

Sources & credits

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