When to Plant Thyme in Cameron County, TX
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.
Cameron County, Texas is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 4 and the first fall frost is December 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 321 days.
At an elevation of 4,025 feet, Cameron County receives approximately 58.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 103°F, so Thyme may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Thyme root diseases.
Cameron County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Soil Compatibility in Cameron County
How your county's soil matches Thyme's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.7–7.8) is within Thyme's preferred range (6.0–8.0).
Soil Texture
The loam soil in Cameron County is excellent for Thyme — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.2%). Annual compost additions will help Thyme.
How to Plant Thyme
Succession Planting Thyme
Sow every 8 weeks. Last sowing by Sep 23 to harvest before frost.
Plant Water Budget
Monthly Watering Guide for Thyme
Thyme needs approximately 0.3 inches of water per week (1.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Thyme Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 1.3" | 2.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Mar | 1.3" | 3.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 1.3" | 6.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 1.3" | 9.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 1.3" | 9.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 1.3" | 7.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 1.3" | 6.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 1.3" | 5.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 1.3" | 3.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 1.3" | 2.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Dec | 1.3" | 1.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in Cameron County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Thyme Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Thyme Planting Timeline — Cameron County, TX
Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | February 11 | Feb 11 – Feb 25 |
| Harvest | April 22 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Transplant Outdoors |
| March | — |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
0.3"/week · Natural rainfall sufficient
📅 Days to Maturity
70–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–8 · Your soil: ideal
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9b
📆 Growing Season
321 days in Cameron County
Growing Tips for Thyme in Cameron County
Direct sow Thyme outdoors after February 04 in Cameron County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With summer highs reaching 103°F in Cameron County, provide afternoon shade for Thyme and water deeply in the morning.
With 59" of annual rainfall in Cameron County, ensure good drainage for Thyme — excess moisture can promote root rot and fungal diseases.
General growing tips
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 Cameron County, TX?
Cameron County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of February 4. Plan your Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Cameron County, TX?
Cameron County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 4 and first fall frost is December 22.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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