Give it sun & drainage
Thyme prefers a sunny position and a mix that drains freely. Keep drainage holes clear and avoid leaving water in a decorative outer pot. Established thyme tolerates drier conditions than mint, but a small pot can still dry out too far.
Check moisture before watering. Newly planted thyme needs attention while its roots establish; drought tolerance does not mean it never needs water. In cool, wet weather, shelter from persistent rain may help if the pot stays saturated.
Trim the leafy growth
Pick small leafy sprigs from an established plant. Light trimming can help maintain a compact shape, but avoid cutting deeply into old, leafless wood. Leave enough active growth for the plant to recover.
Choose a labelled culinary variety suited to your space. Compact growth does not make all thymes identical: habit, flavour and cold tolerance vary. Consult the plant label and local advice before expecting a container plant to survive winter outside.
Reference
- RHS: how to grow thyme (drainage, trimming and harvesting).