Growing Oregano, also Pot Marjoram

Oreganum spp : Lamiaceae / the mint family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
P P P             P P P

(Best months for growing Oregano in New Zealand - cool/mountain regions)

  • P = Sow seed
  • Sow in garden, or start in seed trays. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 64°F and 77°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 6 inches apart
  • Harvest in 6-8 weeks. When flowers appear.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Broccoli
  • "Pizza" oregano
  • Oregano flowering
  • Variegated Origanum

Perennial growing to around 45 cm (17") high. Cut the stems back to the ground to encourage new growth.

There are two main varieties.

"Greek Oregano" is the type normally associated with Oregano flavor.

"Common Oregano" or Marjoram has a less pungent, sweeter taste and is more commonly grown.

For best flavour harvest in the morning just after the dew has lifted.

Easily propagated from root division. It can be hard to germinate seed. Can be grown from cuttings.

Culinary hints - cooking and eating Oregano

Used to flavour tomato dishes, soups, sauces and Greek dishes like moussaka.

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