Oregano

Planting oregano

Start indoors 6 to 10 weeks before the last frost, or plant starts in spring once the ground has warmed. Plants are perennial in roughly zone 5 and warmer.

Planting details

• Grow from named cultivars for dependable flavor
• Spacing: 12 to 18 inches
• Seed depth: press lightly; seed needs light to germinate

Growing requirements

Oregano needs full sun and well-drained, moderately lean soil. Rich soil and heavy watering dilute flavor and encourage floppy growth.

Harvesting and care

Harvest stems anytime once plants are established; flavor peaks just before flowering. Cut back after bloom to encourage a fresh flush of leaves.

Common mistakes

• Overwatering established plants, which invites root rot
• Fertilizing heavily, which weakens the aroma
• Leaving woody, crowded clumps undivided for years, which reduces leaf quality

Companion plants

Oregano suits the sunny, drier edges of beds alongside peppers and Mediterranean herbs. Its summer flowers are a reliable nectar source for bees.