Thyme is best propagated by divisions of sprawling plants or cuttings of the upright forms. Thyme branches root quickly if bent to contact the soil and a rock placed over the point of contact. The non-hybrid forms may also be grown from seed, but germination is slow. Thyme is an easy plant to grow when proper growing conditions are found. Frequent light prunings will encourage leaf growth.
Thymes do have a tendency to become woody as they age.
Many gardeners replace them every three to four years. In Austin, thyme is evergreen and the tasty sprigs may be clipped throughout the year, but avoid heavy pruning in late fall and winter. The best flavor is found just before flowering. Use thyme in meat dishes, soups and stews, breads and salads. A chicken stuffed with lemon thyme and roasted in the oven is heavenly.