Grow thyme in slightly sandy, well-draining soil in full sun 3 to 4 weeks before the average last frost date in early spring. Water occassionally, but once established thyme prefers dry soil. For every use, snip small sprigs as needed, being sure to cut thyme back a few times each season to encourage lush growth. For drying, harvest thyme right as it begins to bloom by cutting 4-5" off branches and hanging the sprigs to dry bundled with strings; then, strip the leaves off the stems with your fingers and store the leaves in a dry, airtight container. As a perennial, thyme can live many seasons, though it may not survive the winter in regions with long, hard freezes.