did you know?

Oregano, also called wild marjoram, is a symbol of happiness. Native to the mountainous areas of the Mediterranean, it takes its name from the Greek words for "joy of the mountains." It was once used in Greece to crown young couples in hopes of a joyous marriage.

general maintenance:

To maintain shape and herbaceous growth, harvest or pinch regularly throughout the season.

pests/diseases:

Root and fungal disease, spider mites, aphids, and leaf miners may occur.

controls:

To control root and fungal disease, remove and destroy diseased plants, and reduce soil moisture. Hose off spider mites and aphids with a strong stream of water, apply horticultural-oil spray, and use beneficial insect predators. For leaf miners, remove affected leaves.

how to sow/plant:

Sow seed in pots indoors, barely covered, 3–4 weeks before last frost. Or start with new plants, cuttings, or root divisions to ensure good fragrance and flavor. Harden off and transplant 6 inches apart after danger of frost has passed. Water after planting.

water and fertilize:

Allow soil to dry slightly between watering.

garden hint:

For the most full-flavored oregano, start several seedlings, then taste their leaves, selecting those with the best fragrance and taste?even seedlings from the same crop will vary.

features:

• Fragrant
• Heirloom

garden uses:

• Containers
• Edging
• Flowerbed borders
• Ground Cover
• Rock Garden

other uses:

• Culinary/Edible (use leaves in sauces and Mediterranean dishes)

combine with:

other culinary herbs, such as anise (), basil (), chives (), dill (), nasturtium (), and parsley ) in the kitchen garden or in containers.