Marjoram

Sweet Marjoram (Majorana Hortensis) - Sweet Marjoram is a tender perennial than does well both in the herb garden or in a hanging basket or other container. Because it is sensitive to frosts, it is often grown as an annual, growing quickly for a harvest each season. It is nicely aromatic and is in the oregano family that grows wild around the Mediterranean. The flower spikes are pale pink and highly attractive to bees and butterflies.

As a culinary herb, Sweet Marjoram's leaves and flowers are used to add a sweet and spicy flavor to foods. It is often found in German cuisine, and it commonly is used to flavor dressings, meat, sausage, lamb, beans and soups. Many gardeners simply enjoy the beauty of the plant and grow it as an ornamental herb and to attract beneficial insects into the garden.

Start Marjoram herb seeds indoors 6 weeks before the last expected frost. Covering the starter flat with clear plastic wrap helps to keep the moisture and heat in and aids in the germination process. Transplant the young plants outdoors after danger of frost has passed. Marjoram can be grown in an indoor herb garden, but plant growing lights are necessary.