Oregano Plant Info

  • Herbaceous subshrubs
  • Hardiness: USDA zones 5 to 9
  • Full Grown Size: Up to 2 feet tall and wide
  • Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall

Oregano is an herb that belongs to the mint family. It’s native to the Mediterranean region and is mainly used for culinary and medicinal purposes. It has a strong, pungent flavor and aroma, making it ideal to enhance several dishes, especially those with tomato, cheese, meat, or vegetables. The herb is also rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that can have various health benefits.

Origanum vulgare
Oregano
Wild marjoram
Pot marjoram
Winter marjoram
Greek oregano
Italian oregano
Greek oregano
Italian oregano
Mexican oregano
Golden oregano
Variegated oregano
Depending on the variety, flower colors can be purple, white, or pink

Water

Oregano prefers moderate watering during the growing season. Water it deeply and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. The herb becomes dormant or semi-dormant in winter, so water it less during this season.

Sunlight

Oregano needs full sun for healthy growth and flavor. Place it in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. But, to prevent leaf scorching, some varieties, like golden oregano, benefit from some shade during the afternoon.

Soil

The plant thrives in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. But it can tolerate sandy or gravelly soil provided it's not compacted or clayey.

Fertilizer

You don't need to fertilize the plant that much because it can thrive in poor soil. But to boost its growth and health, you can apply compost once or twice during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing because it can result in excessive leaf growth at the expense of flavor and aroma.

Pruning

Prune the herb in early spring before new growth emerges. Cut back about one-third of the stems to the ground. You can also trim it throughout the growing season to harvest the leaves or remove dead or diseased stems.

Propagation

You can sow the seeds indoors in late winter or early spring. Place the pot on a sunny windowsill to encourage germination. Once a few true leaves have formed and the frost has passed, you can transplant them outdoors.

Take the cuttings from healthy stems in late spring or early summer. From here, remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Grow in moist, well-drained soil and keep it in a warm and bright location until roots develop.

If you prefer to cultivate by division, dig up the whole plant in early spring or late summer and separate it into smaller sections. Then replant it in fresh soil and water well.

Thrives in

Indoor and Outdoor

Toxicity

Not toxic to pets or humans.

Pests & Diseases

Oregano is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but may occasionally suffer from:
Aphids
Spider mites
Root rot
Powdery mildew

Landscaping Ideas

Edging
Ground cover
Rock garden
Container
Hanging basket

Last Updated: August 22, 2023

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Author

Nonkululeko
Nonkululeko
I'm an enthusiastic gardener. I learned the art of growing my own food using sustainable gardening techniques from my father, which I still find effective for healthy plant growth. Gardening has become one of my best hobbies ever since I realized its benefits beyond growing my own food. Through experimenting and connecting with nature, I've found gardening to be a therapeutic and relaxing practice.

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