Oregano, Common

Oregano thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Before planting, amend the soil with compost and well-rotted manure. Water seedlings regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once established, oregano is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Oregano can also be grown in containers with well-draining soil and placed in a sunny location.

Sow seeds indoors 8 weeks before last frost.  Surface sow seeds several per pot in pre-moistened seed-starting media.  Keep moist until germination has occurred (10-21 days). 

Transplant outdoors after danger of frost has passed, spacing plants 12" in all directions. Water regularly until seedlings are well-established.

Insect Pests

Diseases & Other Problems

To harvest oregano, wait until the plant is at least 4 inches tall, then snip off the stems with a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. To encourage new growth, avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant at a time. To store oregano, hang the stems upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area until they are brittle, then remove the leaves and store in an airtight container away from direct light and heat. Alternatively, you can chop the leaves and freeze them in ice cube trays with water or oil for later use in cooking. Oregano can also be dried in a dehydrator or oven at low temperatures.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Outcrossing in oregano is generally not a concern as very few distinct varieties exist. No special isolation techniques are required in order to save seed.

HARVESTING SEED:

To save seed from oregano, allow the flowers to bloom and then dry out on the plant. Once the flowers have dried and turned brown, cut the stems and place them upside down in a paper bag. Leave the bag in a dry, well-ventilated area for a week or two, shaking it occasionally to release the seeds. Once the seeds have fallen out of the flowers and into the bag, remove the stems and other debris and store the seeds in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.

SEED LONGETIVITY:

Oregano seeds will remain viable for four years when properly stored.