did you know?

The name oregano is from the Greek word for "joy of the mountains," as this herb grows wild on the mountains of Greece. Long before it found its way into modern recipes, oregano was widely used as a medicine -- the ancient Greeks used it on open sores and sore muscles, and the Romans applied it to spider and scorpion bites.

general maintenance:

To maintain shape and herbaceous growth, harvest or pinch regularly all 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 severely 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 seeds indoors, barely covering with soil, 3 to 4 weeks before last frost. Or start with new plants, cuttings, or root divisions to ensure plants with good fragrance and flavor. Harden off, and transplant 6 inches apart after danger of frost has passed. Water upon planting.

water and fertilize:

Allow soil to dry between watering.

features:

• Fragrant
• Heirloom

garden uses:

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

other uses:

• Culinary/Edible (Use in Mediterranean sauces and dishes.)
• Everlasting
• Potpourri

combine with:

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