Oregano

So what is it?

Oregano is a perennial herb from the Mediterranean and much like rosemary, it is a member of the Mint family. Its small, green leaves are rounded and soft to the touch. The trailing stems can reach a height between 2-3 ft with a 2 foot spread. Around midsummer, you can expect to see tiny white or pink flowers. 

Growing conditions?

 Oregano is simple to grow. It performs well in zones 5-9, while colder areas will cause it to die back to the ground. Do not worry though! It is not gone forever. Once spring arrives, oregano will pop back up, ready to start anew. 

Oregano enjoys full sun, but can tolerate a little shade. The ideal planting time is either spring or fall. That does not mean you cannot plant during the summer, however the heat could be a tad rough on it. Whether it is indoors, outdoors, or in a container, oregano is sure to thrive. It is a drought tolerant plant that prefers well-drained or even sandy soil, so don’t water it too often. Only water if the soil around the plant feels dry to the touch.

Be on the look out for various pests such as aphids and spider mites. Also, oregano can fall victim to root/stem rot if planted in poorly drained soil.

 What are its uses?

Most varieties of oregano are used in Italian and Greek style recipes. Leaves can be used fresh, dried or even frozen. While harvesting, remember to leave 1-2 inches of the plant’s stem to allow re-growth. You can also pinch off flowers to encourage tenderness of the foliage. 

Not much of a cook?

Cooking is not for everyone, but that does not mean oregano is completely useless. Oregano is aromatic and will attract bees and butterflies to your garden. The aroma has been known to be strong enough to keep deer away. Oregano has been shown to have a rich medicinal history, treating respiratory, gastrointestinal and skin conditions. Just remember to consult a professional herbalist or your doctor before attempting to use any herb for medicinal use.

So, does oregano sound like a great addition to your garden? If so, stop by our tent to get a closer look and check out our other awesome herbs! You can find us at the Chapel Hill Farmer’s Market, Saturdays from 8 a.m.–12 p.m. at University Place. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have through our contact page!