Red creeping thyme: the fragrant alternative to the English lawn

During high summer, many gardens look much the same: scorched patches, brown blades of grass and a watering can in constant use. Anyone needing to conserve water, or who simply lacks time for continual mowing, is looking for alternatives. One low-growing, fragrant plant is increasingly attracting attention: it forms a dense carpet, copes well with heat and releases a wonderfully spicy scent when walked on.

Why traditional lawns are becoming increasingly problematic

The standard ornamental lawn is no longer particularly suited to the climate of recent years. Longer dry spells, tighter watering restrictions and rising water costs are turning it into a garden concern.

The demands of a conventional lawn

• Lawns require regular mowing, often every week during summer.
• They need substantial amounts of water to remain lush and green.
• Heat quickly scorches them, leaving patchy areas.
• Many lawns also require fertiliser and weed control.

Red creeping thyme as a low-maintenance ground cover

For this reason, more and more garden owners are abandoning the idea of a perfect English lawn. Instead, they are choosing ground-cover plants that green up areas without demanding as much maintenance. At the forefront is: red creeping thyme