1. Planting: Choose a sunny spot in your garden, as French thyme thrives in full sun, ideally receiving 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil should be well-draining and preferably sandy or loamy. Space the plants about 12 inches apart to ensure proper airflow. If you are planting in pots, choose containers with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

2. Watering: Water your French thyme sparingly, as it prefers drier conditions compared to other herbs. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, about once a week, or more frequently in hotter months. Be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

3. Pruning: To encourage bushy growth and prevent flowering, prune your thyme regularly, especially before the plant starts to bloom. You can pinch back the stem tips or cut back about a third of the plant in early summer. This not only promotes new growth but also ensures a more flavorful harvest.

4. Fertilizing: French thyme generally requires minimal fertilization. You can apply a light all-purpose organic fertilizer once in early spring to promote growth. Alternatively, compost can be mixed into the soil at planting to provide necessary nutrients throughout the growing season.