How to intercrop thyme
How to intercrop thyme
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris Linnaeus, 1753) is an aromatic perennial plant of the Lamiaceae family. In addition to Thymus vulgaris, there are other species of thyme, however in this sheet, for intercropping, we will refer to this species, considering however that the other species of thyme also have similar needs.
Thyme is an excellent plant in the kitchen where it is used as a flavoring (seasoning) or as a tea. The flowers and leaves are collected and used to flavor soups and meats.
Thyme is also an excellent honey plant, much visited by bees who make excellent honey from it, but it is uncommon because there are few areas with sufficient thymes. It was considered the best in classical Greece (Mount Hymettus honey).
Thyme leaves contain various active ingredients, among these we remember, in addition to proteins and carbohydrates, fibers and vitamins: A (retinol), B1 (Thiamin), B2 (Riboflavin).
Furthermore, in aesthetics it can be used in foot bath water to obtain an anti-fatigue and disinfectant action.
Intercropping is a technique in which the thyme can benefit considerably; excellent when combined with wild strawberries, or normal strawberries, rosemary, sage; Mixing with basil is not recommended.
In general it is a very versatile aromatic plant that lends itself well to intercropping with other plants: specifically, this technique can help improve the growth, health and productivity of crops. Here are some plants that go well with thyme:
Rosemary: Both are aromatic plants that share similar needs in terms of soil and sunlight. Rosemary can benefit from the repellent properties of thyme against some insects.
Sage: Sage is another aromatic plant that thrives in similar conditions as thyme. Both plants can help each other keep some pests away.
Oregano: Oregano has similar growing needs to thyme, and their combination can create an aromatic zone that effectively repels various insects.
Lavender: Lavender and thyme thrive in dry, sunny conditions. Lavender can also attract beneficial insects, such as bees, which can aid in pollination.
Marjoram: Marjoram is another aromatic plant that can be grown alongside thyme. Both can benefit from the same growing conditions and improve soil quality.
Tomatoes: Thyme can help improve the flavor of tomatoes and keep away some pests that can attack tomato plants.
Cabbages: Planting thyme near cabbages can help keep away cabbage butterflies and other insect pests that attack brassicas.
Eggplant: Thyme can help protect eggplants from some pests thanks to its repellent properties.
Strawberries: Thyme can improve the health of strawberry plants and help them keep away harmful insects.
It is important, however, to carefully evaluate the pedoclimatic needs of the two or more plants that must be intercropped, the phenological cycles and systems that allow, in the case of large plots, mechanization.