Oregano Care

Oregano needs just an inch (2.5 cm) of water per week and is somewhat drought-tolerant. Let the soil dry out between waterings, and avoid overwatering your greenie.

Oregano needs regular pruning. Pinch the plant back from time to time when it grows to 4 inches (10 cm) tall to encourage a bushy growth habit. This will also delay flowering, which is great for the culinary qualities of Oregano leaves. If the plant becomes too woody, cut the stems to the ground and wait for new growth from the base. You can harvest the leaves anytime you want – pinch them with your fingers or cut them with the shears.

Generally, Oregano does not need a lot of fertilizing. In spring, though, it will be helpful to repot your plant into fresh soil with an added slow-release fertilizer. You can also apply a liquid fertilizer when the flowers fade in summer.

Oregano needs full sun for at least 6 hours a day. A southern window will work just fine.

Well-draining, light, and dry soil, like sandy loam, is perfect. Multi-purpose compost will work as well.

It’s easy to propagate Oregano by division. The best time to divide is spring or autumn. 

1. Carefully take the plant out of the pot, keeping the rootball intact.
2. Use a spade or just your fingers to divide the rootball in half. It’s best if you tease the roots apart rather than cut them. 
3. Plant both in different pots with new soil.

Oregano tolerates heat and drought but not excessive humidity. A stable temperature between 60°F - 80°F (15-27˚C) is perfect.

Oregano can be grown both in pots and outdoors. This herb prefers well-draining porous pots like terracotta pots.

The Ancient Greeks believed that the goddess Aphrodite created Oregano!