Oregano

Planting Oregano: Tips for Success

When to Plant

Oregano grows best in temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C), so:

• Outdoors, oregano should be planted in spring, after the last predicted frost.
• Indoors, oregano should be planted 6-10 weeks before the last expected frost of winter.

Where to Plant

Consider the following to determine the best spot for oregano plants:

• Sunlight: Oregano needs 6–8 hours of direct sunlight. If you’re planning to keep it indoors, it should be placed near a sunny window or under grow lights to prevent leggy growth.
• Soil: Choose sandy or loamy soil with good drainage and a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–8.0). Avoid rich soil, as oregano thrives in lean conditions.
• Beds or containers: Both can work well, so go with your preference/what you consider easiest for pruning and harvesting.

How to Plant

• Space: Oregano plants should be placed 12-18 inches apart from each other and other plants to ensure airflow and prevent overcrowding.
• Depth: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep or transplant seedlings when they’re a few inches tall.

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Oregano Care Instructions For Healthy Growth

Watering

Oregano thrives in slightly dry soil and doesn’t typically require frequent watering. However, during hot or dry weather (above 85°F), more frequent watering is needed to keep the soil slightly moist.

Maintenance

• Pruning and trimming: Remove flowers for the best flavor or leave them for their ornamental beauty, and regularly trim dead or damaged leaves to promote bushier growth.
• Fertilizer: Feed lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as oregano thrives in nutrient-lean soil.

Have questions about caring for oregano? Visit Fairview Garden Center in Raleigh, NC, or give us a call—we’re here to help!

What Are the Most Popular Varieties of Oregano?

Common Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

The preferred variety when a milder flavor is desired, common oregano is a popular choice worldwide.

• Growth Zones 5-9—Perennial, Full Sun: Suitable for areas with winter temperatures that typically do not drop below -20°F to -10°F.
• Height: 1-2 feet.
• Flower Color: Pink or purple.

Greek Oregano (Origanum vulgare hirtum)

Known for having the strongest, spiciest flavor, Greek oregano is a favorite in Mediterranean dishes.

• Growth Zones 5-9—Perennial, Full Sun: Suitable for areas with winter temperatures that typically do not drop below -20°F to -10°F.
• Height: 9 inches – 2 feet.
• Flower Color: White.

Mexican Oregano (Lippia graveolens)

Featuring a citrusy aroma and robust flavor, Mexican oregano is closely related to lemon verbena and requires the most frequent pruning.

• Growth Zone 8—Tender Perennial, Full Sun: Suitable for slightly warmer areas with winter temperatures that usually do not drop below 10°F.
• Height: 2-3 feet.
• Flower Color: White or pale pink.

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Oregano Benefits: Culinary and Flavor Tips

Oregano is a staple in pizza and pasta sauces, but its versatility goes beyond Italian cuisine—from flavoring grilled meats and Greek salads to Mexican salsas and stews.

When cooking with oregano: 

1. Only use the leaves (the stems are too woody to eat).
2. Dried oregano offers a stronger flavor but should be added sparingly to avoid bitterness.
3. To ensure a milder flavor, add oregano towards the end of cooking.

Oregano Facts: Origin and Other Uses

Native to Southeast Europe (the word “oregano” means “Joy of the Mountains”), oregano was believed to have been created by the goddess Aphrodite. It was historically used as a powerful antiseptic and cough suppressant, still found in some herbal remedies and essential oils today, and was brought to America by soldiers during WWI. Oregano is also used in some perfumes for its strong aromatic scent.