Organic Greek Oregano

Greek oregano, a robust perennial herb, boasts a spreading nature. Its resilient dark green leaves are round with a distinctive gritty texture and light fuzz. Sporting small, white flowers, typical of culinary oreganos, this herb not only adds aromatic zest to dishes but also thrives with enduring charm in gardens. A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, Greek oregano improves culinary experiences with its unique flavor profile and resilient growth.

Sustainably grown in 2.75" pots

Choosing the Right Location

Greek oregano thrives in well-drained soil and requires plenty of sunlight to grow properly. When selecting a location for planting, choose an area that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. Additionally, ensure that the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging, as Greek oregano does not tolerate soggy conditions.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting Greek oregano, it's essential to prepare the soil properly. Start by removing any weeds or debris from the planting area. Then, amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve fertility and drainage. Greek oregano prefers slightly alkaline soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 8.0.

Planting Greek Oregano

Plant starts in well-prepared soil, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation.

Watering and Maintenance

Once established, Greek oregano requires minimal watering and maintenance. Water the plants deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overhead watering, as wet foliage can promote disease. To encourage healthy growth and bushiness, pinch back the stems of Greek oregano periodically, especially during the growing season. This helps promote branching and prevents the plant from becoming leggy. Additionally, remove any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health.

Fertilizing

Greek oregano does not require heavy fertilization, but you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once or twice during the growing season to provide essential nutrients. Alternatively, you can top-dress the soil with compost or organic matter to enrich the soil and promote healthy growth.

Harvesting Greek Oregano

You can start harvesting Greek oregano leaves once the plants are well-established and have reached a height of 4 to 6 inches. To harvest, simply snip off individual leaves or cut entire stems as needed. Harvesting encourages new growth and helps maintain the plant's compact shape. For the best flavor, harvest Greek oregano leaves in the morning when the essential oils are most concentrated. You can use fresh oregano immediately in your culinary creations, or dry the leaves for later use by hanging them upside down in a warm, well-ventilated area.

Pest and Disease Management

Greek oregano is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, especially when grown in optimal conditions. However, common pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies may occasionally infest the plants. Monitor your oregano regularly for signs of pest damage, and treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Additionally, ensure proper air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Avoid overhead watering and overcrowding, and promptly remove any diseased or damaged plant material to prevent the spread of disease.

Overwintering Greek Oregano

Greek oregano is a perennial herb that can withstand mild winters in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. In colder climates, you can protect the plants during the winter months by mulching heavily around the base of the plants to insulate the roots from freezing temperatures. Alternatively, you can grow Greek oregano in containers and bring them indoors during the winter months.

Growing Greek oregano in your garden is a rewarding endeavor that provides you with a steady supply of flavorful herbs for culinary and medicinal use. By following these guidelines for planting, care, and maintenance, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of aromatic oregano leaves throughout the growing season. Whether used fresh, dried, or infused into oils and vinegars, Greek oregano adds a delightful flavor and aroma to a wide range of dishes.

Cannot ship to the following states: AK, HI, PR, VI, GU

Shipping Weight: 0.5 lb

• Container Compatible
• Does Not Require Support
• Edible Flower
• Good for Drying
• Heirloom
• Open-Pollinated
• Requires Summer Water
• Somewhat Drought Tolerant