Oregano Seeds

Oregano is a must-have herb for any garden

The culinary herb oregano is one of the most versatile. Oregano should definitely be in your herb garden, if not your cutting garden, because it's great in everything from Italian pasta to Mexican dishes to Greek cuisine.

White, pink, and purple blooms adorn this Mediterranean native. While oregano isn't normally allowed to flower when used in cooking, the developing leaf can be utilized as a filler in summer bouquets if any of your plants bloom. Is there a sandy spot in your yard that won't grow grass? Try sowing oregano seed, a hardy herb that will quickly establish itself as a fragrant ground cover. Brassicas and beans benefit greatly from the presence of oregano. In addition to functioning as a natural pest deterrent, oregano attracts native pollinators and beneficial insects.

How to plant oregano seeds indoors and then transplant seedlings to your garden

Oregano seeds should be planted indoors at least six weeks before the last frost date, or direct-sown after the last frost date. Once the seedlings have developed strong taproots, transplant them outside, spacing them eight to twelve inches apart. Direct sowing seedlings at the same spacing outside. Pinching oregano seedlings and clipping off the tops is a method you'll want to do once they've grown to be at least four inches tall. Plants are encouraged to branch out when pinched, resulting in a greater summer yield. The plant's most delicious leaves appear immediately before it blooms, so cut emerging stems to keep the plant producing quality leaves.

How to encourage long-lasting oregano growth

Fresh oregano leaves can be picked as desired from oregano plants kept near the kitchen. To ensure that your oregano continues to produce, trim the stems at least six inches tall, cutting above a node (or clump of flowering leaves). Bunch the stems together and hang upside down to dry for a few weeks in a cool, dry location. Oregano leaves retain their flavor when dried, making it a handy spice to have on hand.

Grow oregano for its therapeutic advantages as well as great taste

In addition to being a popular culinary herb, oregano has therapeutic properties. Oregano essential oil can be used orally or applied topically. Oregano is an anti-inflammatory plant that can aid in the relief of joint pain. The herb has antibacterial and antiviral effects as well. If the flavor isn't enough to convince you to grow oregano this year, perhaps the medicinal advantages will. If nothing else, plant this deer-resistant perennial to protect your other garden plants!

For more information about planting, growing, and harvesting oregano seed, see the Oregano Seeds Planting Guide.