Oregano, a staple herb in Italian cuisine, is a member of the mint family. It is renowned for its warm, aromatic, and slightly bitter flavor. One will also note that it is a close relative of marjoram, an herb used similarly. As soldiers were returning from World War II, the herb spiked in popularity as soldiers sought out the dominant flavor found in Italian pizza. Along with its widespread use in Italy, Oregano is also often found in dishes stemming from the Mediterranean, the Philippines, and Latin America. You can usually find oregano in savory and spicy dishes such as lamb or mutton, as well as in a good Greek salad.

So you’ve decided to plant oregano in your garden? According to our research on oregano, you can plant anything nearby!

Oregano can be grown from both seeds and clippings. Clippings must be taken from an established plant with good roots. Plant seeds about ¼ inch below the soil, and bury clippings about ½ inch below, removing the leaves at the buried end before covering it. The plant enjoys lots of sunlight, soil with good drainage, and moderately fertilized soil. It is very unlikely you will have to add any fertilizer to see successful maturation. Plants will grow to be about 2.5 feet tall and 2 feet wide, so planting them at least 10 inches apart is strongly recommended. To allow for optimal results, begin planting about 6-10 weeks before the last frost of spring, taking care to cover the seeds before the frost season is over. You can do this by using a blanket or hay. Be sure to remove the covering completely after the last frost has passed. In about a week you should see the plant begin to sprout. Water it generously until it is established, then water as needed (when the soil feels dry to the touch).

Oregano can be served right from your garden after a thorough washing. Make sure it is dry before serving. The best time to harvest it is just before it blooms, usually early July depending on your region. If you don’t plan on using it right away, oregano is actually seen as more potent when dried. To dry, simply cut stems from the plant and cover them in a paper bag outside. When the leaves feel brittle, you can store it in an airtight jar.