When to Plant Thyme in Winnebago County, WI
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.
Winnebago County, Wisconsin is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 30 and the first fall frost is October 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 165 days.
At an elevation of 608 feet, Winnebago County receives approximately 38.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 82°F, so choose short-season varieties of Thyme to ensure they mature before fall.
Winnebago County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.3-6.7
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 — Winnebago County, WI
Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 7 | May 7 – May 21 |
| Harvest | July 16 | Jul 16 – Sep 17 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| 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
6 – 8
USDA Zone
Zone 4b
Growing Season
165 days
Growing Tips for Winnebago 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 Winnebago County, WI?
Winnebago County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of April 30. Plan your Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Winnebago County, WI?
Winnebago County, Wisconsin is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 30 and first fall frost is October 12.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Winnebago County gardeners in Zone 4b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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