Tips On Growing Oregano
There are a number of different ways of growing oregano, and none of them are particularly difficult. This Mediterranean herb can be grown out of doors in the herb garden, or most anywhere else, indoors in a kitchen window, under a compact fluorescent light bulb or growing lamp, or hydroponically. Oregano makes a very nice pot or container plant.
Growing Oregano - Oregano is a perennial herb, often going under the name of Pot Majorum. It grows to a height of around 2 feet, something to bear in mind if growing oregano indoors, or in containers. It does not require particularly fertile soil, though like most plants likes soil that is well drained. Fertilizing is not required; in fact adding fertilizer can negatively affect the taste of the harvested leaves, a feature shared with many other types of herbs. When growing oregano in pots or containers, perlite, vermiculite, peat, or most any soil less potting mix will suffice.
Growing oregano can be one by planting seeds or from cuttings, though planting from seeds is probably easiest for most gardeners. Oregano is a perennial herb. A plant will usually live from 3 to 5 years, but if left to flower and go to seed, it will usually seed itself, and new oregano plants will appear in the spring. Oregano grows in most parts of the country, being hardy to around USDA Zone 4. Seedlings should not be set out until after the last frost, and seeds will germinate best if planted when the soil temperature is around 50 degrees F or above. Oregano seems to like dry soil, although the plants will need watering if conditions become very dry. A moderate watering program will usually be fine in most cases.
Harvesting Oregano - Once the plants have started to branch out, they should be pruned or nipped back to about 1 1/2 inches to 1 inch from the main stalk. This will ensure a bushier plant, and a better harvest. The leaves are typically harvested just before full flowering, when blossoms have just started to appear. Leaves can be picked individually, or full stems, flower heads included can be cut of and hung to dry. The leaves, once dried, are then picked and stored in an airtight container.
Go Mediterranean - By growing oregano, one will soon notice the difference between the taste of the leaves from the homegrown plants and store purchased oregano leaves or powder. Chances are you won't want to go back to the store bought herb again. Oregano is a staple in the Mediterranean diet; Italian cuisine wouldn't be the same without it. Oregano is very often used in tomato dishes, and with grilled and fried meats and vegetables as well. While one can use fresh leaves as flavoring, dried leaves are considered to be much more flavorful, and in general add more to the taste of the food it is added to. When flavoring various dishes, basil and oregano often go hand in hand, and are quite often used together in Italian cuisine. The Greeks use oregano extensively in their salads, in casseroles, and like the Italians, in sauces used with cooked fish and meats.
Under The Lights - If you don't have an outdoor garden, or even a patio, but have a spot in your house for oregano, plus maybe a couple of other herbs, purchase a few containers, some potting mix, and the seeds of course, then, using a compact fluorescent light bulb as your source of “sunlight”, sit back and watch your oregano, and the other herbs grow. Try to get a variety meant for warmer climates if you live in a cold climate area, but can grow the plant indoors. You'll get better tasting leaves as a result.