How To Grow Oregano In Your Own Backyard (Or Patio)
Oregano, with its robust, spicy flavor and versatile uses, has become a staple in my herb garden. It is easy to grow, spreads quickly, and is quite drought-tolerant.
Not only is oregano a tasty addition to the kitchen, adding lovely Italian flavor to dishes, but it also makes a great seasonal ground cover or edging along a path. Oregano also loves to grow in pots where it can spill over the edges.
So yes, friend, this herb really is a lovely addition to any garden or patio! Growing oregano can be a rewarding experience for seasoned gardeners or beginners.
Below, I'll share step-by-step instructions on how to grow oregano, from choosing the right type, growing from seed, to harvesting and storing your bounty.
Contents:
Why Grow Oregano?
Oregano is more than just a herb for your pizza and pasta!
Here are some of my main reasons for growing oregano:
Culinary Uses
Oregano is a versatile herb that enhances the flavor of many dishes, including Italian, Mediterranean, and Mexican cuisines. It's fantastic to always have a fresh supply on hand!
Health Benefits
Packed with antioxidants, oregano has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, promoting overall health.
Ease of Growth
Oregano is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that can thrive in various conditions, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced gardeners. You can plant it directly in-ground or grow them in pots!
Perennial Plant
As a perennial herb, oregano will grow back every year, providing a long-term supply of fresh leaves. In colder climates though, oregano is grown as an annual as it often does not survive the winter.
Pest Resistance
Oregano is relatively pest-resistant, reducing the need for chemical interventions and promoting a healthier garden environment.
Aromatic and Ornamental Value
Oregano's pleasant aroma and attractive foliage can enhance your garden's or indoor spaces' aesthetics.
Cost-Effective
Growing your own oregano is more economical than continually purchasing fresh or dried herbs from the store.
Pollinator Friendly
Oregano flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting the local ecosystem and aiding in pollinating other garden plants.
varieties of Oregano and how to use them best
There are several types of oregano. Below are some of the most common ones, each with its own unique flavor profile and best use:
Greek Oregano
Greek oregano is the most commonly used variety in cooking. Its strong, peppery flavor is perfect for Italian and Mediterranean dishes. Greek oregano has larger leaves than its Italian counterpart.
Italian Oregano
This variety is a hybrid between oregano and marjoram. It has a milder, sweeter taste, making it ideal for pasta sauces, salads, and lighter dishes.
Mexican Oregano
Mexican oregano isn't a true oregano but is often used in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. Its citrusy, slightly licorice flavor pairs well with chili, beans, and grilled meats.
Golden Oregano
This variety is primarily grown for its attractive golden foliage. It has a milder flavor and can be used in ornamental gardens or as a garnish.
Image from heybigsplendor.com
When to Plant Oregano
Oregano is a warm-weather herb, so it's best to plant it in the spring after the last frost. The soil should be around 70ºF.
If you're starting from seed, you can begin indoors about six to eight weeks before the last frost date. For seedlings or cuttings, wait until the soil has warmed up and the danger of frost has passed.
Where to Plant Oregano
Oregano loves the sun and thrives in well-drained soil. It originated in the Mediterranean, after all!
Choose a spot in your garden that receives at least six to eight hours of sunlight daily. If you're growing oregano indoors or in pots, place it near a sunny window sill, under grow lights, or in a sunny spot.
Oregano can also be grown in pots (they look beautiful when they trail over). Pots work great if you have limited garden space or want to bring the herb indoors in winter. Use a pot with good drainage and a light, well-draining potting mix.
READ MORE: How to make the best organic garden soil
How To Grow Oregano
You can grow oregano from seeds, seedlings, or cuttings.
Growing Oregano From Seed
1. Start Indoors: About six to eight weeks before the last frost, sow oregano seeds in a seed tray or small pots. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and keep them moist.
2. Germination: Oregano seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days. Ensure they get plenty of light, either from a sunny window or grow lights.
3. Transplanting: Once the seedlings have two sets of true leaves and the soil has warmed up, harden them off, and transplant them into the garden or larger pots. Space the plants about 8-10 inches apart.
Growing Oregano From Seedlings
1. Select Healthy Seedlings: Purchase healthy oregano seedlings from a nursery to plant outdoors when your soil is warm enough and the risk of frost has passed.
2. Prepare the Soil: Ensure the garden bed or pot has well-draining soil. You can mix in some compost to enrich the soil.
3. Planting: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, place the seedling in the hole, 8 to 10 inches apart. The plants will grow 1 to 2 feet tall and spread about 18 inches.
4. Cover with soil and water thoroughly.
Growing Oregano From Cuttings (Propagation)
1. Take Cuttings: In late spring or early summer, take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy oregano plant. Make the cut just below a leaf node.
2. Prepare the Cutting: Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting.
3. Rooting: Place the cutting in a glass of water or dip it in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, sunny location.
4. Transplanting: Once the cutting has developed roots (usually in a few weeks), transplant it to the garden or a larger pot.
READ MORE: What does it mean to harden off plants?
How to Care for and Maintain Oregano
Watering
Oregano prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions once established. Water the plants deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. They do not need as much water as other herbs and overwatering can lead to root rot.
Feeding
Oregano doesn't require much fertilization. Too much fertilizer can reduce the flavor of the leaves. A light application of compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring should be sufficient.
Pruning
Regular pruning encourages bushy growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy. When your plants are about 4 inches tall, pinch back the tips of the stems to promote branching. You can also trim the plant back by one-third in midsummer to rejuvenate it and encourage fresh new leaves. Or, if you are looking for pretty white flowers, simply leave them to flower, which will also provide nectar and pollen for bees.
Pests and Diseases
Oregano is relatively pest-free but can occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or leaf miners. Use insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water to control pests. Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
Does Oregano Grow Back Every Year?
Oregano is a perennial herb, meaning it will grow back every year.
However, in colder climates, the plant may die back in the winter but will regrow from the roots in the spring. To help oregano survive the winter, mulch the plants with straw or leaves to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.
In milder climates, oregano can remain evergreen and continue growing year-round. However, even in these areas, the plant may benefit from a period of dormancy to rest and rejuvenate.
Companion planting with oregano
Oregano is an excellent companion plant, offering numerous benefits to its neighboring plants.
Oregano’s strong aroma can help deter common garden pests such as aphids, spider mites, and cabbage moths. Oregano flowers also attract beneficial insects like bees and ladybugs, which aid in pollination and pest control.
Since oregano is a great ground cover, it can help suppress weeds and retain soil moisture around other plants.
Specific Companion Plants for Oregano
Tomatoes: Oregano can help deter aphids and other pests that commonly affect tomato plants, while also potentially enhancing their flavor.
Peppers: The pest-repellent properties of oregano benefit pepper plants by reducing the risk of infestations.
Beans: Oregano can help deter bean beetles and improve the overall health of bean plants.
Brassicas: Planting oregano near cabbage, broccoli, and other brassicas can help protect them from cabbage moths and other pests.
Strawberries: Oregano can help deter pests that target strawberry plants, ensuring a healthier fruit harvest.
Eggplants: Oregano can help deter pests that commonly affect eggplants, promoting healthier growth.
While oregano is generally beneficial, it's important to consider a few factors:
Invasiveness: Oregano can spread rapidly and become invasive if not properly managed. Regular pruning and containment can help control its growth.
Water Needs: Ensure that the water requirements of oregano align with its companion plants to avoid over- or under-watering.
Harvesting and Storing Oregano
Harvesting
1. Timing: You can expect an oregano harvest throughout the growing season, from late spring to early fall. Harvest the leaves once the plant is several inches tall. However, for the best flavor, harvest oregano just before the plant flowers, usually mid-summer. The oils in the leaves are most concentrated at this time.
2. Method: Cut the stems with sharp scissors or pruning shears, leaving at least a third of the plant intact to encourage regrowth.
3. Frequency: You can harvest oregano throughout the growing season as needed. Regular harvesting promotes bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming woody.
Storing
1. Drying: Drying is the most common method of preserving oregano. Bundle several stems together and hang them upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area. Once the leaves are dry and crumbly, remove them from the stems and store them in an airtight container.
2. Freezing: You can also freeze oregano. Chop the leaves and place them in ice cube trays. Fill the trays with water or olive oil and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for long-term storage.
3. Fresh Storage: To keep oregano fresh for a few days, place the stems in a glass of water, cover with a plastic bag, and store in the refrigerator.
READ MORE: Preserve your garden bounty by freezing and dehydrating the harvest
And it is as easy as that, friend! Now you know how to grow oregano!
With a bit of care and attention, you'll have a continuous supply of this aromatic herb to enhance your dishes and become the great Italian chef you were meant to be ;-)
The journey from garden to table is indeed one filled with satisfaction and delicious possibilities, which I hope you will experience. Happy gardening!
Love, Annette xx
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