Growing and Sowing of Marjoram / Oregano

Oregano, also known as wild marjoram, is an easy-to-grow herb that can be sown indoors year-round. It is also easy to grow in planting pots and containers.
The plant belongs to the mint family. It is a perennial plant that, depending on the species, grows up to about 60 cm. In summer, the plant blooms with small pink flowers, which are also edible. These can be used, for example, as a garnish for (savoury) dishes.
Growing oregano from seeds
There are several varieties of marjoram. The best known are the wild marjoram (Origanum Vulgare) and the common marjoram (Majorana Hortensis). Wild marjoram is also called oregano, common marjoram simply marjoram. The main difference between the two species is that wild marjoram is a perennial and common marjoram is an annual. The taste of both is almost the same, marjoram is slightly more refined in taste. This herb is frequently used in Italian and Greek cuisine.
Sowing and planting of oregano
Indoors, oregano can be sown in pots or containers almost all year round. For outdoor cultivation, pre-sowing can be done from March to May, after which the plants can be planted out from June.
Sow directly in open ground? This is possible from mid-April to July. Press the seeds into the soil or cover them with a thin layer of soil. They need light to germinate. Keep a planting distance of about 20 x 30 cm.
Buy Marjoram or Oregano Seeds >
Position and soil for Oregano
Oregano likes a warm, sunny spot. The soil should be airy and not stay wet for too long. If necessary, the soil can be made airier by adding compost and/or coarse sand before sowing.
How to care for your oregano plants
Oregano does not need a lot of water and nutrition. In pots, watering 2 times a week and occasionally fertilizer (especially for herbs) is sufficient. In open ground, it is sufficient to fertilize in early spring and summer. The plant can be pruned in the spring. The woody shoots can be used as cuttings. The plant is moderately hardy and is therefore best covered in winter with, for example, foliage.
When and how to harvest oregano?
It is possible to harvest as soon as the plants are large enough. This is often from July onwards. Do not cut or trim off too much so that the plant can regrow. Leave about 8 cm. During the flowering period, the herb loses some of its aroma. The flowers are also edible.
How to preserve oregano
It is best to use the leaves immediately after harvesting. They can be kept in the fridge for a few days. The flowers and leaves can be dried. However, they will lose some flavour. Oregano can also be frozen; this can be done by freezing it fresh or in an ice cube tray with water.
Is oregano healthy?
Organo is healthy and contains relatively high amounts of vitamin A, C, various types of vitamin B, iron and calcium. It is said to have a antispasmodic effect that prevent spasms of stomach, intestine and urinary bladder, menstrual complaints and respiratory problems. And that it can lower the level of cholesterol, has antibacterial effects and is good for the immune system.
Oregano seeds in our collection
We have several varieties of oregano or wild marjoram seeds in our range, including organic seeds.
Tips to grow oregano
- Put oregano in your flower garden too. The plant blooms with pretty pink flowers that attract many butterflies and bees.
- Wild marjoram can also be made into a delicious tea.