When to plant Thyme in Howell County, MO
Howell County sits in cold Zone 7a. Plant Thyme April 16–April 30 for the single annual harvest; the October 25 first frost closes the window.
When to Plant Thyme in Howell County, MO
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.
Howell County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is October 25, giving you a growing season of approximately 199 days.
At an elevation of 696 feet, Howell County receives approximately 36.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Thyme during the growing season.
Howell County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.6
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 | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.2" | 1.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 5.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Howell County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Thyme Planting Timeline — Howell County, MO
Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 16 | Apr 16 – Apr 30 |
| Harvest | June 25 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 |
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
199 days in Howell County
Growing Tips for Howell 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 Howell County, MO?
Howell County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Howell County, MO?
Howell County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 25.
When should I plant Thyme in Howell County, MO?
In Howell County, MO, plant Thyme after the last frost (around April 9) and before the first frost (around October 25). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Howell County, MO for Thyme?
Howell County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Thyme grows reliably in zones 4a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Thyme grow in Howell County's climate?
Yes — Thyme grows well in Howell County's temperate climate. Howell County averages a 199-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 9 and first frost around October 25.
Your Howell County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Howell 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.