When to plant Thyme in Franklin County, ME
Franklin County sits in cold Zone 5a. Plant Thyme May 21–June 4 for the single annual harvest; the September 28 first frost closes the window.
When to Plant Thyme in Franklin County, ME
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.
Franklin County, Maine is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 14 and the first fall frost is September 28, giving you a growing season of approximately 137 days.
At an elevation of 244 feet, Franklin County receives approximately 40.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 80°F, so choose short-season varieties of Thyme to ensure they mature before fall.
Franklin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.6
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 | — | 3.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 2.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 3.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | — | 3.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| May | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | — | 3.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Nov | — | 2.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 3.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (May–Sep in Franklin County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Thyme Planting Timeline — Franklin County, ME
Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 21 | May 21 – Jun 4 |
| Harvest | July 30 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Transplant Outdoors |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| 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 5a
📆 Growing Season
137 days in Franklin County
Growing Tips for Franklin 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 Franklin County, ME?
Franklin County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of May 14. Plan your Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Franklin County, ME?
Franklin County, Maine is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 14 and first fall frost is September 28.
When should I plant Thyme in Franklin County, ME?
In Franklin County, ME, plant Thyme after the last frost (around May 14) and before the first frost (around September 28). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Franklin County, ME for Thyme?
Franklin County sits in USDA Zone 5a. Thyme grows reliably in zones 4a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Thyme grow in Franklin County's climate?
Yes — Thyme grows well in Franklin County's temperate climate. Franklin County averages a 137-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 14 and first frost around September 28.
Your Franklin County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Franklin County (Zone 5a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.