When to plant Lemon Thyme in Simpson County, KY
In Simpson County, Lemon Thyme is a single-season spring crop — there's no second fall window. Plant April 13–April 27 for an 70–90-day harvest, finishing well before the October 29 first frost.
When to Plant Lemon Thyme in Simpson County, KY
Lemon thyme is a low-growing perennial herb with tiny, citrus-scented leaves. It combines the savory quality of thyme with a bright lemon flavor, excellent with fish and poultry.
Simpson County, Kentucky is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 6 and the first fall frost is October 29, giving you a growing season of approximately 206 days.
At an elevation of 3,996 feet, Simpson County receives approximately 49.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Lemon Thyme during the growing season.
Simpson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Lemon Thyme
Lemon 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 | Lemon Thyme Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 3.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 3.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.9" | 1.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 4.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Simpson County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Lemon Thyme Planting Timeline — Simpson County, KY
Lemon Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 13 | Apr 13 – Apr 27 |
| Harvest | June 22 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| 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 7a
📆 Growing Season
206 days in Simpson County
Growing Tips for Simpson County
Start from cuttings or divisions. Plant in well-drained soil. Trim back after flowering. Use as a fragrant ground cover or edging plant along garden paths.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Lemon Thyme in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lemon Thyme in Simpson County, KY?
Simpson County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 6. Plan your Lemon Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Simpson County, KY?
Simpson County, Kentucky is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 6 and first fall frost is October 29.
When should I plant Lemon Thyme in Simpson County, KY?
In Simpson County, KY, plant Lemon Thyme after the last frost (around April 6) and before the first frost (around October 29). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Simpson County, KY for Lemon Thyme?
Simpson County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Lemon Thyme grows reliably in zones 5a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Lemon Thyme grow in Simpson County's climate?
Yes — Lemon Thyme grows well in Simpson County's temperate climate. Simpson County averages a 206-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 6 and first frost around October 29.
Your Simpson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Simpson County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.