Growing Oregano - How to Grow Oregano
To begin growing oregano, you should find out which variety you need to sow. There are culinary and ornamental types of oregano. Oregano is very simple to upkeep, grow and harvest, so is very difficult to go wrong.
When growing oregano for kitchen use, there are two varieties to consider.
‘Greek Oregano’ is used in Mediterranean style cooking. We associate this type most with the oregano flavor.
‘Wild Marjoram’, Origanum vulgare, is popular in French cuisine; it has a less intense odor and sweeter taste.
Varieties of growing oregano can be defined by the color of clusters, some pink, some purple. This perennial herb grows well in most temperate climates.
It may sound surprising, but oregano, is actually part of the mint species. The Greek word oregano means “joy of the mountain” Before, Oregano was seen covering large areas of the hills in Greece. The shepherds encouraged the growth for their grazing flocks, believing the white flowering herb made the meat tender and tasty.
Work a plant bed over before placing the seeds, then cover with soil. Seeds can be planted inside, and then transplanted when the outside temperature remains at around 45 degrees Farenhiet. This herb does not tolerate cold weather. Throughout the winter season, place the oregano in window boxes.
Make sure the earth does not retain water.
With oregano, it is best not to add any fertilizer or compost, as this tends to change the flavor of the herb.
Never over-water. You can let the growing oregano soil dry a little, and then water, but not too much. The ground should not be soaked.
Try growing oregano in pots if you cannot supply a well draining soil bed.
Oregano plants should be placed twelve inches apart. This flavorful herb needs at least eight hours of full sun each day.
Oregano may grow two foot high but normally it averages a height of ten to twelve inches.
Growing Oregano Tips
Never use mulch on oregano plants that will retain moisture such as wood chips, straw, or grass. Using stone mulch helps prevent root rot.
To produce more oregano leaves at harvesting time, pinch off the flower heads if your plant begins to blossom.
When the oregano has reached a height of around five inches, you can begin harvesting by pinching the leaves off the plants.
Cut the growing plant back about three inches continually throughout the season to encourage new growth.
Good Things About from Oregano
As for the medicinal purposes of growing oregano, the herb is good for arthritus, glaucoma of the eye, and chest infections.
When it comes to colds or flu, a small handful of oregano in a quart of boiling water is a natural remedy. This technique can get rid of a nasty head cold, while at the same time leaving the skin moisturized and soft.
Uses for Oregano:
Use oregano leaves as a welcome addition to all types of dishes, especially fish, meats, salads, sauces, and stews.
Oregano can be dried and stored or chopped and saved in the freezer.
You’ll love how easy growing oregano is.
The best part besides the flavor is having the herb available all year.