When to plant Thyme in Howard County, IN
Howard County's short 178-day growing season means one Thyme planting between April 29 and May 13. No fall crop in Zone 6a.
When to Plant Thyme in Howard County, IN
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.
Howard County, Indiana is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 22 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 178 days.
At an elevation of 1,303 feet, Howard County receives approximately 41.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Thyme during the growing season.
Howard County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7.1
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 | — | 1.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Howard County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Thyme Planting Timeline — Howard County, IN
Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 29 | Apr 29 – May 13 |
| Harvest | July 8 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| 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 6a
📆 Growing Season
178 days in Howard County
Growing Tips for Howard 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 →
Thyme in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Thyme in Howard County, IN?
Howard County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 22. Plan your Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Howard County, IN?
Howard County, Indiana is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 22 and first fall frost is October 17.
When should I plant Thyme in Howard County, IN?
In Howard County, IN, plant Thyme after the last frost (around April 22) and before the first frost (around October 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Howard County, IN for Thyme?
Howard County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Thyme grows reliably in zones 4a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Thyme grow in Howard County's climate?
Yes — Thyme grows well in Howard County's temperate climate. Howard County averages a 178-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 22 and first frost around October 17.
Your Howard County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Howard County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.