Creeping thyme would not be a good choice here in the Houston area. It doesn't do well with our heat and humidity, from what I've seen. It usually wilts and dies in a few months. I cannot give you one example in a homeowner or public setting where it has thrived. In a place like, Ohio, it could be used as a groundcover - perhaps not turf.

In addition, thyme typically prefers sandy or well-draining soil. Our soil is very heavy clay soil. 

On 10/20/2023 8:24 AM CDT Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

 

 

One of my favorite native groundcovers is frog fruit. I have seen it grown as a lawn alternative once. It may be best when allowed to grow with other non-competing options or with a lot of patience. It is quite adorable, but will die back in a harder winter.

The Harris County Master Gardeners presented a lawn-alternative talk and is stored on the library's Youtube page. This may be most helpful. One is 3 years old and the other was done earlier this year. It is titled "Tips for Great Lawns" but it has a bit of native alternatives in it, as that is the volunteer's specialty. https://www.youtube.com/@harriscountypl/search?query=master%20gardeners

It really depends on how high you would like it, the maintenance involved, and if you are looking for pollinators.

Some other options include wedelia, lantana, mondo grass (this did exceptionally well during the freezes), dwarf ruellia, and Asiatic jasmine.

Here is a list of ground covers to consider: Ground Covers | Archives | Aggie Horticulture (tamu.edu)
natives.pdf (agrilife.org)

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On 11/03/2023 11:12 AM CDT Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote: