There are several factors to consider when planting oregano, from the right time of year to the soil’s condition. This herb also appreciates a little water each week. Oregano is a hardy plant that can be grown in containers. The plant doesn’t require much fertilization and can make a great ground cover or attractive border front. It looks great in rock gardens.
Ideal season to plant Oregano
You can plant Oregano anytime from spring to fall, but it’s best to wait until the soil temperature reaches 70oF. Oregano plants are easy to start from seeds or purchased already established plants. Start seeds or cut stems from an established plant to grow your own. Space them approximately 8-10 inches apart. Then, you can transplant them directly into the garden.
You’ll want to water your oregano seedlings at least twice a week for the first few weeks. Once the plant establishes a good root system, you can cut back on watering. However, you should always make sure that the top inch of soil is dry before watering.
Oregano is a vigorous plant, which makes it an excellent choice for a garden. Once established, you’ll want to divide the plant. Fortunately, it’s easy to divide. It can be divided through its root ball and planted in a new spot. Make sure to choose a well-drained soil, and water it only intermittently. You can also plant oregano indoors in containers or pots if you aren’t sure when it should be planted. Make sure you plant it after the last frost date.
Soil conditions
If you want to grow oregano plants in your garden, you will need to provide the best soil conditions for them. They thrive in well-drained soil that has a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. Regular pruning is a good idea to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess. Regular pruning should also include pruning off sections of stems to create a fuller look.
Because oregano is native to the Mediterranean, it grows best in a well-drained soil that receives a fair amount of sun. It also thrives in well-drained soils that are porous. However, it does not grow well in soil that is too wet or too heavy.
Fertilize your garden soil once or twice a year with balanced granular fertilizer. This fertilizer is a great natural ingredient to feed soil microbes. Fertilizer makes oregano plants more productive and stronger. Remember to harvest oregano leaves regularly, to promote new growth. Plants are best harvested when they are about four inches high. Avoid harvesting oregano plants while they are in bloom, as it will result in a less aromatic plant.
Watering
Watering oregano is easy, but there are some things to keep in mind. You don’t want to overwater your plant. It prefers a moist soil with plenty of drainage. Also, it benefits from sanding on a regular basis. This helps to maintain the soil’s moisture and keeps the plants cool in the summer heat. Sanding the soil will also help the plant adjust to being grown in a pot.
If you are growing oregano in pots, ensure that the soil is dry between waterings. Overwatering will not be a good idea as the plants won’t take to it. It’s important to keep your soil dry and to water sparingly. When growing oregano in a container, make sure to remove any dead leaves and prune the plants.
If you don’t want to water your oregano, you can apply a slow-release plant food. This granule feeds the plant over time, giving it the nutrients it needs to grow. This fertilizer has ingredients that feed soil microbes, which helps the plant grow stronger.
Harvesting
Harvesting oregano is as easy as cutting off the leaves. When the oregano plant reaches a height of 6 to 8 inches, trim the stem to the leafy portion. It is best to cut the oregano leaves off about a third of the way down the stem. This will prevent the plant from drying out.
Oregano leaves can be stored in a dehydrator for future use or frozen. The leaves should be able to dry completely within two weeks, but they may take longer depending on local weather conditions. Place the dried leaves in jars or brown paper bags to store oregano.
Harvesting oregano is best done in the early morning when the leaves are still moist. The flavorful essential oils will be at their best during this time.
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I am a man of simple pleasures. I love spending my time in my yarn, where I cultivates beautiful flowers and fresh vegetables. Of course I takes great pride in his excellent yawn, and I loves to see the joy it brings to others – especially children. I also enjoys taking care of his lawn, and love to watch my dog play with the neighborhood kids on the lawn.
