When to Plant Thyme in Hidalgo 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.
Hidalgo County, Texas is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 6 and the first fall frost is December 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 315 days.
At an elevation of 4,081 feet, Hidalgo County receives approximately 67 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 100°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.
Hidalgo County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.8
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.
Plant Water Budget
Thyme Planting Timeline — Hidalgo County, TX
Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | February 13 | Feb 13 – Feb 27 |
| Harvest | April 24 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 |
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
Low — drought tolerant
Days to Maturity
70–90 days
Soil pH
6 – 8
USDA Zone
Zone 9b
Growing Season
315 days
Growing Tips for Hidalgo 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
Level Up Your Garden
Thyme in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Thyme in Hidalgo County, TX?
Hidalgo County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of February 6. Plan your Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Hidalgo County, TX?
Hidalgo County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 6 and first fall frost is December 18.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Hidalgo County gardeners in Zone 9b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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