Herb Oregano

Herb Oregano.  This hardy perennial herb has sweet smelling, aromatic foliage which is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. Try it sprinkling oregano on lamb or pork before cooking. Oregano, also known as Pot Marjoram makes a useful and low maintenance addition to the herb garden. The flowers produced in summer and autumn can also be used for flavouring after they have been gently dried.

Height and spread: 45cm (18″).

Sow
February – June

How to sow
Sow oregano seeds indoors or under glass from February to June. Sow seed 1.5cm ( 3/4″) deep in pots or trays on the surface of barely moist seed compost and cover with a sprinkling of finely sieved compost. Place the seed tray in a propagator at a temperature of 16-21C (61-70F) or seal inside a clear polythene bag until germination which takes 14 – 21 days.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into 7.5cm (3″) pots and grow on in cooler conditions. When all risk of frost has passed, gradually acclimatise oregano plants to outdoor conditions over 7 – 10 days before planting outdoors. Plant oregano at a distance of 30cm (12″) apart on any well drained or chalky soil in full sun.