When to plant Thyme in Washington County, MN
Plant Thyme in Washington County, between April 30 and May 14 — the only viable window. Zone 5a's short season (169 frost-free days) rules out a fall crop.
When to Plant Thyme in Washington County, MN
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.
Washington County, Minnesota is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 23 and the first fall frost is October 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 169 days.
At an elevation of 832 feet, Washington County receives approximately 30.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Thyme during the growing season.
Washington County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Thyme Planting Timeline — Washington County, MN
Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 30 | Apr 30 – May 14 |
| Harvest | July 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 |
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 5a
📆 Growing Season
169 days in Washington County
Growing Tips for Washington 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 Washington County, MN?
Washington County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of April 23. Plan your Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Washington County, MN?
Washington County, Minnesota is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 23 and first fall frost is October 9.
When should I plant Thyme in Washington County, MN?
In Washington County, MN, plant Thyme after the last frost (around April 23) and before the first frost (around October 9). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Washington County, MN for Thyme?
Washington 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 Washington County's climate?
Yes — Thyme grows well in Washington County's temperate climate. Washington County averages a 169-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 23 and first frost around October 9.
Your Washington County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Washington 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.