Ruqayyah Snyder
Oregano is a sun-loving herb with a robust, earthy, and aromatic flavour that is commonly used in Italian and Mediterranean cuisines. It is a versatile plant that can be grown in rockeries, garden beds, veggie patches, or pots. Oregano is a perennial herb, which means it can continue to grow year after year and with proper care, it will become more robust over time. The best time to grow oregano in Australia is when the weather is not extremely hot or cold, as these conditions can affect germination and growth. Oregano thrives in well-drained soil, with plenty of sunlight, and moderate watering. It is important to provide the right growing conditions and a suitable variety for the specific cuisine and flavour profile desired.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Height | Usually only 20 cm high |
| Foliage | Evergreen perennial |
| Climate | Grows well in cold temperate, warm temperate, arid/semi-arid, and tropical and sub-tropical climates |
| Soil | Grows well in most well-drained soils or premium potting mixes |
| Position | Full sun to part shade |
| Flowering and fruiting | Tiny pink or white flowers are usually produced in summer |
| Feeding | Regular applications of fertiliser are not required |
| Watering | Allow soil or potting mix to dry between waterings. Do not overwater |
| Growth | Naturally spreading herb |
| Germination | Oregano seeds typically germinate within 7 to 14 days, given the right conditions |
| Seedling Stage | After germination, the seedlings take an additional 2 to 3 weeks to grow stronger and develop true leaves |
| Transplanting | Transplant oregano cuttings or transplants when they are a few inches tall |
| Pests | Slugs and snails may be attracted to young oregano plants |
| Maintenance | Prune to remove any wayward growth |
| Harvesting | Harvest regularly to maintain a compact shape and to encourage new growth |
| Fertiliser | Fertiliser is not usually necessary, as oregano naturally grows in poor soils |
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What You'll Learn
Soil preparation
Oregano is a hardy herb that can be grown in most climates, but it thrives in warm and sunny spots with well-drained soil. It prefers moderate moisture levels, so water only when the top inch of soil feels dry, and be careful not to waterlog the soil as this can lead to root rot. If your soil is prone to damp, you can either raise the level of the soil to improve drainage or choose a different area of your garden to plant your oregano.
When preparing the soil for planting oregano, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the original nursery pot and the same depth. Mix a small amount of compost or soil improver through the original soil at the base of the planting hole. If growing in pots, choose a premium potting mix, preferably designed for herbs and vegetables. A good-quality potting mix will ensure that your oregano has the right balance of nutrients and drainage. You can also mix in some perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage.
The type of soil you use will depend on the specific variety of oregano you are growing and the climate you are in. Mediterranean oregano, for example, prefers dry soils and achieves maximum flavour when grown in full sun. However, it can also grow well in part shade. In general, oregano hates waterlogged soil, so if your soil struggles with drainage, consider growing your oregano in a pot or a raised bed to improve airflow and drainage.
After planting, water the soil thoroughly to settle it in. In summer, add a light layer of organic mulch to help retain moisture during the warmer months. Fertiliser is not usually necessary, as oregano naturally grows in poor soils, but you can use a balanced, all-purpose fertiliser every 4-6 weeks during the growing season if desired. Regular harvesting will also help keep your oregano plant healthy and compact.
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Germination and growth
Oregano can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or potted plants. It is a perennial herb, meaning it can continue to grow year after year. It is a versatile plant that can be grown in rockeries, garden beds, veggie patches, or pots.
Oregano seeds typically germinate within 7 to 14 days, given the right conditions. The ideal soil temperature for germination is 18-21°C. This is the initial stage where the seeds sprout and develop into seedlings. After germination, the seedlings need time to grow stronger and develop true leaves. This seedling stage can take an additional 2 to 3 weeks. During this time, the seedlings need protection from pests, pets, and weather until they are established.
Once the seedlings have developed true leaves, they can be transplanted into their final growing location. If you're starting with oregano transplants or cuttings, they will establish more quickly than growing from seeds. You can transplant them into the garden or larger pots once they are a few inches tall.
Oregano thrives in well-drained soil, with plenty of sunlight, and moderate watering. It prefers a warm and sunny spot, receiving at least 3-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. If growing oregano in a hot and humid climate, ensure good drainage and air circulation to prevent fungal problems.
Water the oregano plant when the soil dries out, and prune to remove any wayward growth. Regular harvesting will help maintain a compact shape and encourage new growth. Fertiliser is not usually necessary, as oregano naturally grows in poor soils, but you can apply compost, manure, or fertiliser if desired.
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Container gardening
Oregano is a hardy perennial herb that is native to the mountainous regions of the Mediterranean. It is a robust plant with few demands and is forgiving, making it perfect for container gardening. You can grow oregano in a round pot, a garden border, or a raised bed. The most important considerations are size and drainage.
Oregano likes to spread out, so it is important to choose a container that is at least 12 inches in diameter. If you prefer a smaller container, make sure it is at least 10 to 14 inches across and 6 to 8 inches deep. Oregano will weaken and potentially rot if left to sit in soggy soil, so good drainage is crucial. Choose a container with adequate drainage holes and consider using a lightweight potting mix that contains some perlite or horticultural sand to help with drainage.
You can also use Birdie's Metal Raised Garden Beds, which are made of durable galvanized steel and coated in long-lasting, non-toxic paint. These beds will hold in warmth during the cold season, allow for good drainage, and look stylish. If you want the flexibility to move your oregano around, try using Epic Grow Bags, which are made of a permeable felt that allows for drainage and root breathing. These bags are lightweight and can be used indoors with a tray underneath.
When planting oregano, use a quality potting mix and plant the seeds 6 to 10 weeks before the last spring frost. Space the plants 8 to 10 inches apart and make sure they get plenty of sunlight. Oregano loves the sun and needs at least six hours of direct sunlight most days, although some varieties may prefer a little shade to prevent their leaves from scorching.
With its attractive foliage and pretty pollinator-friendly blooms, oregano is a fantastic ornamental plant that can highlight your patio pot or garden entrance. And with its woody, upright stems and aromatic leaves, it will add savory flavor to your pizza, pasta sauce, and anything with tomatoes. So, whether you choose a pot, a border, or a bed, growing oregano in a container is a simple and flexible way to bring this appealing and useful herb to your garden.
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Pests and diseases
Oregano is a hardy herb that is rarely attacked by pests or diseases. However, vigilance is essential.
Pests
Oregano plants may occasionally be targeted by sap-sucking insects like aphids, mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled by spraying a horticultural or insecticidal oil, or soap, or neem oil for organic control. Slugs and snails can also be a problem, which can be remedied with beer traps or snail and slug pellets.
Diseases
Oregano is susceptible to fungal diseases, especially in humid conditions. To reduce the risk of fungal problems, ensure your oregano plants have good airflow and avoid overhead watering. Before pruning, make sure your tools are clean to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases. Remove any dead or diseased growth during the trimming process.
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Harvesting
Oregano plants generally reach maturity and full flavour after about 3 to 4 months. However, you can start harvesting leaves once the plant is well-established, usually within 6 to 8 weeks after planting. Harvesting oregano regularly will help keep the plant compact and neat, and also encourages new growth.
The best time to harvest oregano for drying is just before it flowers, as this is when the leaves have the highest concentration of essential oils, which contribute to the herb's flavour. Harvest oregano in the morning after the dew has dried but before the day gets too hot. This is when the oils are most concentrated. If you're drying the oregano, gather 4-6 stems into a small bundle, tie the ends with string or a rubber band, and hang the bundles upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area.
When harvesting oregano, use clean scissors or pruning shears to cut stems just above a node or set of leaves. Rinse the stems lightly, shake off the moisture, and dry the herb. You can also take tip cuttings in spring; the cuttings should be about 6cm long. Pinch your finger over the lower 2cm of the cutting and run your fingers downward to remove the lower leaves.
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Frequently asked questions
Oregano can be grown year-round in most climates in Australia. However, avoid planting in extremely hot or cold weather, which can affect germination and growth.
Oregano thrives in full sun to part shade, with at least 3-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. It prefers well-drained soil, moderate watering, and a warm and humid climate.
Oregano seeds typically germinate within 7 to 14 days, given the right conditions. The seedling stage then takes an additional 2 to 3 weeks. With proper care, oregano will become more robust over time as it is a perennial herb.
