Oregano Growing Guide

All you need to know to grow successfully!

Plant Family:
Lamiaceae
Plant Type:
Perennial

Square Foot Spacing:

4
Typical Season:
Warm
Typical Zones Grown In:
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Growing Difficulty:
Easy

Oregano is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. It is a highly aromatic herb with a pungent flavor that is commonly used in Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines. The leaves of the plant are typically small and oval-shaped, and can be either fresh or dried. Oregano is commonly grown in gardens and containers and can be used fresh, dried or frozen. In addition to culinary use, oregano has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory and digestive problems. It is also a popular ingredient in natural remedies and beauty products. Oregano is relatively easy to grow and can be grown both indoors and outdoors in a variety of growing conditions.

How to Grow Oregano Organically

  1. Choose a planting site: Oregano prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It can grow in a variety of soil types but prefers slightly alkaline soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0.
  2. Plant the seeds or transplants: Oregano can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date, or planted directly in the garden after the soil has warmed up in the spring. Plant the seeds or transplants about 6-12 inches apart.
  3. Water the plants: Oregano prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged, so water deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions.
  4. Fertilize the plants: Oregano does not require a lot of fertilization but will benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, once or twice during the growing season.
  5. Prune the plants: Oregano can become woody if it is not pruned regularly. Prune the plant back by about half in the spring before new growth appears, and again in the fall after the growing season has ended.
  6. Harvest the oregano: Oregano can be harvested at any time once the plant has reached a height of about 4-6 inches. Cut the stems just above a leaf node, leaving about 2 inches of stem behind. Hang the stems upside down in a warm, dry place to dry, or use fresh.

With these simple steps, you can grow your own flavorful oregano to use in a variety of dishes, from pizza to pasta sauce.

Planting Guidelines

The following are general guides to follow. However, nothing is set in stone. Feel free to experiment!

How to Start:
Outdoor
When to Direct Sow:
March, April, May
When to Start Indoors:
March , April , May
Sprouting Time:
2-3 Weeks

Ideal Temperature (C):

10-25°C
Depth:
1/4 inch
Spacing (cm):
25 cm
Row Spacing (cm):
18-24 inches
Sun Exposure:
Full Sun
Maturity Time:
3 Months
When To Harvest:
May, June, July, August, September, October
How to Harvest:
Cut Leaves, Flowers

Health Benefits

Growing your own food is one of the best things you can do for your health. Let’s check out some of the health benefits!

Is It Edible?
Yes
Edible Parts:
Leaves
Potential Health Benefits:
Vitamin K, Iron, Calcium

Tips to Growing Organically

Growing without the use of pesticides and herbicides is easier than you may think and it’s better for the environment!

Companion Plants:
Pepper , Eggplant, Squash, Bean, Cabbage , Broccoli, Brussel Sprouts, Cauliflower, Kohlrabi, Turnip , Strawberry, Kale
What Plants to Avoid:
Common Pests:
Aphids, Whiteflies, Spider Mites
Common Disease:
Downy Mildew, Root Rot
Bonus Grow Tips:
Plant in sunny location, harvest leaves when they are young

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