Grow a garden filled with Italian oregano, from freshly harvested Origanum vulgare seeds. Italian oregano is a very fragrant herb which displays its red-flushed, green leaves through the summer months. The plants will display clusters of pink flowers, above its many, 1 & 1/2 inch leaves. These beauties will attract not only your eye, but various butterflies, bumblebees, honeybees and hummingbirds as well. The plant stand to a mature height of only 12 to 18 inches tall.
Categorized as a perennial flowering herb, Italian oregano will establish a deep root system in its initial year of growth. The plants will use this root system to grow year after year, if the winter temperatures aren’t too cold. The plants are often grown in small and medium-sized pots, and also directly in the garden as well. Because of their beautiful blooms, they can be sown in flower beds, or along borders such as fences, driveways and walkways too.
Italian oregano is one of the most important and popular herbs in Italian cuisine. The leaves are best used dry, and can be mixed with many bold flavors like onions, garlic, tomatoes, and beef. Many popular dishes in Italian cooking include Italian Oregano, such as spaghetti and lasagna. You might also be surprised to know that these herbs are not only used in cooking, but in many men’s colognes as well.
Quick Facts
- Type: Herb
- Season: Perennial
- Heirloom: Yes
- Color: Pink
- Height: 12″ to 18″ Tall
- Width: 12″ to 18″ Spread
- Harvest: 70 Days
- Uses: Culinary / Medicinal
- Environment: Full Sunlight
Sowing The Seed
Oregano seeds can be sown indoors or directly outdoors. If started indoors, sow in peat pots, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost. Sow the seeds directly to the surface of the topsoil as they will require light to properly germinate. Direct sow or transplant outdoors when all danger of frost has passed.
Growing Conditions
Oregano will enjoy an area of full sunlight for the majority of the day. It does particularly well in mild temperatures of 60F to 75F. Oregano plants will grow best with soils that are neutral, as well as dry, just make sure that the area is well drained. To improve drainage, adding a light compost to areas of hard, compact soil is best. Water the seeds daily with a mist setting or a small spray bottle to avoid overwatering and/or disrupting the seed.
Germination & Growth
Your Oregano will begin to show life within as little as 7 to 14 days after sowing. The plants will grow to a mature height of about 12 to 18 inches tall and can take up the same amount of width. Space each plant roughly 12 to 18 inches apart from one another. Trim the plants back before flowering, roughly 6 weeks after the seeds are sown to promote a dense growth habit. Harvest by cutting the leaves as desired for your culinary uses.